The medical term for Malabsorption syndrome is an alteration in the ability of the intestine to absorb nutrients adequately into the bloodstream. Abnormalities in the gut wall, the inability to produce enzymes or bile to help in the digestion or abnormalities in the flora of the gut may cause Malabsorption. Fats, carbohydrates, proteins and nutrients may cause Malabsorption syndrome to appear due to the inability or the altering of the absorption of nutrients by the intestine.
Difficulty in producing enzymes needed by the body could be the result of a faulty digestive system, which can cause problems with fluid and nutrient absorption. The digest system may have problems due to defects in the congenital structural of the pancreas, gall bladder, or liver. If your intestine has had any kind of inflammation, infection or injury, it could inhibit the ability to absorb. Symptoms of Malabsorption may consist of:
• Anemia
• Diarrhea
• Excessive amount of fat in the stool
• Abdominal distention with cramps
• Bloating and gas, which is the result of impaired water and carbohydrate absorption.
• Edema, which is the cause of a decrease in protein absorption
• Muscle atrophy and wasting of the muscle
• malnutrition and weight loss due to decreased fat, carbohydrate, and protein absorption
• muscle cramping from decreased vitamin D, calcium, and potassium levels
• Skin burning of the perianal along with itching and soreness.
• Irregular heart rhythms
• Blood clotting disorders may occur due to a vitamin K deficiency.
Anemia usually runs in people with Malabsorption syndrome due to the lack of iron and folic acid. It is very important for people who have Malabsorption syndrome to take in plenty of fluids and nutrients as these are stripped from the body with the syndrome. If a severe case of Malabsorption exists, hospitalization may be suggested by the doctor in order to monitor the fluid and electrolyte imbalances. Diet rich in carbs, protein, fats, vitamins and minerals may be given by the doctor to help replenish these that are lost. Eating at least 5 to 6 small meals is suggested for those with Malabsorption syndrome as well as staying away from fluids and certain types of foods that are known to cause diarrhea.
Monitoring of the individual with Malabsorption syndrome is very important to ensure that problems such as dehydration, an increased thirst, dry tongue, mouth and skin, low urine output as well as concentrated urine, dizzy feeling when standing, increased pulse rate, irregular pulse rate and low blood pressure do not occur. If a person experiences any of the above along with easy bruising, excess fluid buildup, numbness in the leg area as well as a burning sensation and tingling feeling in the fingers and toes and a sign of nutrient, vitamin and mineral deficiency, the person should consult their doctor immediately.
People who may be at risk for Malabsorption syndrome are those who consume alcohol, those who have had intestinal surgery, drug use such as laxatives and mineral oil, family history of Malabsorption and premature birth.
