Starving

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Starving refers to the state of extreme hunger resulting from a lack of essential nutrients over a prolonged period. It is a severe form of malnutrition and can lead to serious health issues, including organ failure, and eventually death if not addressed promptly.

Causes[edit | edit source]

Starvation can occur due to various reasons, including poverty, food insecurity, and eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa. It can also be a result of political issues such as war and famine.

Symptoms[edit | edit source]

The symptoms of starvation include fatigue, dizziness, weight loss, muscle weakness, and a weakened immune system. In severe cases, individuals may experience confusion, organ failure, and coma.

Treatment[edit | edit source]

Treatment for starvation typically involves the gradual reintroduction of food, as eating too much too quickly can lead to refeeding syndrome, a potentially fatal condition. Medical supervision is often required during this process.

See also[edit | edit source]

References[edit | edit source]


Starving Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD