Malnutrition
Malnutrition is a term used to describe the body’s inability to obtain enough nutrients to ensure proper organ function. It can range from mild to severe and is often caused by starvation. When not enough calories are consumed, the body cannot obtain enough nutrients. It can also occur when not enough of a specific type of nutrient is consumed. Medical conditions and a poor diet can cause this condition.
Obesity
Obesity is a term used to describe those people who have a body mass index of over 20 percent. Factors such as height, weight, sex, and build must be considered to determine this mass index. The National Institutes of Health say that Body Mass Index of 30 or above is a sign of obesity. Generally, this indicates that the amount of body fat is too high. However, some people may have a high body mass index due to having a very high muscular makeup.
Obesity can occur for many reasons and can be brought on by both behavioral actions and genetic makeup. Treatment often involves changes to the diet as well as counseling and exercise. Medication support may help as well.
Obesity contributes to the development of various health problems including:
- Type 2 diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Stroke
- Heart attack
- Heart failure
- Gallstones and gall bladder disease
- Cancers including prostate, colon and rectum cancers
- Osteoarthritis including of the knees, hips, and lower back
- Sleep apnea
- Pickwickian syndrome (drowsiness, under ventilation, red face)
If you suffer from malnutrition or obesity, our physicians at Cobble Hill or Ocean Parkway in Brooklyn, NY can help you to overcome this condition and improve your health.
Nausea and Vomiting
These are symptoms of an underlying illness.
Nausea is the feeling of wanting to vomit while vomiting is the action of throwing up the contents of the stomach. This is a violent act that can do damage to your digestive symptom. There are various causes for it including:
- Acute gastritis
- Central causes such as signals from the brain
- Mechanical obstruction of the bowel
- Medications
- Stomach-related illness
When symptoms last for more than 24 hours, there is a risk of dehydration and medical attention should be sought. This is very important in infants and children as they are more likely to suffer from this type of health risk. If vomiting occurs along with blood, tarry bowel movements, or fever, you should contact your Brooklyn physician right away for help.
Rectal Bleeding
Also known as hematochezia, rectal bleeding occurs when there is bright red blood present. This may include blood in stool or passed clots. The bleeding may stem from the rectal area or from a digestive problem.
When there is severe bleeding, this can create a health problem that’s more significant. Most of the time, these bleeds are mild and correct themselves. If they do not, it may be necessary to speak to our Brooklyn gastroenterologist to learn more about the underlying cause. Rectal bleeding can be brought on from a variety of conditions and may need more investigative support.
If it is accompanied by dizziness, weakness, or fainting, this indicates low blood pressure and emergency treatment is necessary. Individuals may need a blood transfusion in this case.
Ulcers
Ulcers, specifically peptic ulcers are a type of open sore that occurs in the interior of the stomach. These can also develop in the upper portion of the small intestine or the esophagus. Most commonly, they cause pain in the upper abdomen. They can be caused by a range of factors including bacterial infections, medications, stress, and diet. Esophageal ulcers tend to be brought on as a result of acid reflux, which occurs when stomach acids enter back into the esophagus. These ulcers are common, but getting help from a Brooklyn ulcer doctor is important for preventing worsening symptoms.
One of the causes of ulcers is the growth of H. pylori, a type of bacteria that thrives in the stomach and intestine. It is believed that about half of all people around the world have H. pylori present with industrial nations having between 20 and 30 percent infection rates. However, many people have no sign of the bacteria or symptoms of it. However, it can cause ulcers and inflammation. As a result, individuals should seek out a Brooklyn gastroenterologist in Cobble Hill or Ocean Parkway for help with any ulcer.
Frequently Asked Questions About Malnutrition and Obesity
What are the GI issues that may cause malnutrition?
Several gastrointestinal conditions can lead to malnutrition. These include celiac disease, Crohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, chronic pancreatitis, liver disease, and persistent infections. These conditions may interfere with digestion, appetite, or nutrient absorption, making it hard for the body to get what it needs from food.
What is the difference between malnutrition and malabsorption?
Malnutrition means the body is not getting enough nutrients overall. This can happen due to a poor diet or to your body not properly using nutrients. Malabsorption occurs when you eat enough food, but your digestive system cannot properly absorb nutrients. Malabsorption often leads to malnutrition if left untreated.
What are the consequences of long-term malnutrition?
Untreated malnutrition affects your body’s ability to recover and function optimally. This often leads to weakened immunity, organ function decline, muscle wasting, and mental impairment.
What is the difference between obesity and being overweight?
Being overweight means having more body weight than what is considered healthy for your height. Obesity is a more severe condition involving excess body fat that increases the risk of health problems. A person is considered overweight if their body mass index (BMI) is between 25 and 29.9. Anything above that is categorized as obesity.
Can obesity result in gastrointestinal disease?
Yes. Obesity can increase the risk of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, GERD, gallstones, IBS, and certain gastrointestinal cancers. Excessive fat can put pressure on the abdomen and disrupt normal digestive function over time.
Can I lose weight without surgery?
Yes. Many people lose weight successfully without surgery through medically supervised programs. Our weight loss clinic, EndoSlim Clinic, offers multiple non-surgical solutions for weight loss, including intragastric balloons, endoscopic sleeve gastroplasty (EGS), dietary therapy, and weight loss injections and pills. We’ll help create a plan that fits your health needs and goals.
What are the benefits of maintaining a healthy weight?
The benefits are countless. Maintaining a healthy weight helps boost digestion and confidence, and decreases the risk of chronic diseases, such as diabetes, heart disease, and hypertension. A healthy weight also improves energy levels, sleep quality, and mobility.
Can I be overweight and still be malnourished?
Yes. Even if someone is overweight, they may lack essential vitamins and minerals. Poor diet quality, absorption issues, or digestive conditions can cause nutrient deficiencies regardless of body weight. The combination often results in chronic illnesses.
Why do I have nausea and vomiting?
Several factors, including food poisoning, acid reflux, ulcers, food intolerances, medications, or GI conditions, can cause nausea and vomiting. Anti-nausea medications and home remedies with ginger can help control nausea. However, persistent and severe symptoms should be evaluated by a GI doctor to identify the underlying cause.
What is an H. pylori infection?
Helicobacter pylori is a type of bacteria that infects the duodenum and stomach lining. H. pylori affects more than half of the population. It can cause inflammation, gastritis, nausea, peptic ulcers, and even stomach cancer. Many people don’t have symptoms, making routine screenings essential to prevent complications.
Do peptic ulcers go away on their own?
Some ulcers can heal on their own if a healthier environment is created and the root cause is addressed. However, a medical diagnosis is often needed to identify the cause. If the cause is factors such as H. pylori, you may require medical treatment.
Where can I see a gastroenterologist in the Brooklyn area?
There's no need to suffer in silence. While many gastroenterology disorders can be frustrating and unpleasant, they are often treatable. To get relief from ulcers, malnutrition, nausea, or other gastrointestinal issues, call 718 521-2840 to schedule an appointment with Atlantic Gastroenterology. Let's help you feel your best with expert, personalized care.