What happens to people who suffer from kwashiorkor?

Kwashiorkor is caused by a deficiency of protein in the diet, especially when this occurs in children between the ages of 1-3.

Signs and symptoms of kwashiorkor include:

- Edema (swelling) of the face, legs, and abdomen due to low levels of albumin (hypoalbuminemia) in the blood.

- Pot bellies: Swollen bellies due to edema and atrophy (shrinkage) of muscles.

- Skin changes, including areas of hyperpigmentation (darkening) and depigmentation (lightening)

- Thin, peeling paint

- Growth retardation

- Mental apathy and irritability

- Fatty liver and liver damage

- Immune dysfunction

- Increased risk of infection

- Hair changes

- Muscle wasting

Long term effects of kwashiorkor can include:

- Permanent mental and growth impairment

- Increased susceptibility to infection and other health problems throughout life