Definition
Starvation is the most extreme form of malnutrition; consists of the total lack of energy intake and essential nutrients. Therefore, the body must resort to reserves stored in its own tissues. Initially, the subject has a considerable weight loss with loss of fat deposits and muscle mass. The skin appears thin, dry, pale and cold. The bones become protruding. After some time, edema, anemia, diarrhea, apathy, irritability, slowing of the wrist, hypotension and cardiorespiratory insufficiency appear.
Starvation can result from fasting and anorexia nervosa. Moreover, it can be found in the case of very serious gastrointestinal diseases, strokes or comas. Starvation also occurs when food is not available, such as, for example, during a famine or in deserted areas. If continued over time, this condition causes the destruction of the visceral organs.
Total starvation is fatal in 8-12 weeks.
Possible Causes * of Starvation
- Nervous anorexia
- Motion sickness
- Vascular dementia
- Giardiasis
- Stroke
