Treatment for Malnutrition
Once malnutrition is diagnosed, your doctor begins to make a treatment plan for you. If need be, your doctor may refer you to a nutritionist and other healthcare providers. Treatment administered will depend on the type of malnutrition, the severity of it, and if there are any other underlying conditions or complications.
It may include:
- ongoing screening and monitoring
- making a dietary plan, which might include taking supplements
- treating specific symptoms, such as nausea
- treating any infections that may be present
- checking for any mouth or swallowing problems
- suggesting alternative eating utensils
In severe cases, a person may need to:
- Be administered in the hospital
- gradually start taking in nutrients over a number of days
- receive nutrients such as potassium and calcium intravenously
You will be assigned a healthcare professional that will help monitor your improvement and ensure you are getting the nutrition you need.