E44: Protein-energy malnutrition of moderate and mild degree
Protein-energy malnutrition of moderate and mild degree (ICD-10 code E44) is a group of conditions that affect how your body absorbs, digests, and uses proteins and energy. This can be due to a lack of sufficient proteins and calories in your diet or problems with digestion. Regardless of the cause, the common denominator is a shortage of energy and nutrients, which can lead to loss of muscle and fat tissue, lower resistance to infection, and in severe cases, life-threatening complications. Symptoms vary depending on the severity and duration of the malnutrition, but may include weight loss, feeling tired or weak, and having poor muscle function. It may start slowly, with vague symptoms such as fatigue or decreased appetite. Over time as the body's stores of proteins and calories are depleted, more specific signs, such as noticeable weight loss or muscle wasting, may become evident. These conditions can affect any system in the body but primarily impact the gastrointestinal, muscular, and immune systems.
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