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Protein-Calorie Malnutrition

Protein-calorie malnutrition occurs when the body lacks sufficient calories or protein to function. Dr. Bharat Pothuri at GastroDoxs in Houston specializes in diagnosing and treating PCM, providing personalized nutrition plans, medical treatments, and advanced support to restore strength, immunity, health.

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Difficulty Swallowing

American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy

About the Expert

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a board-certified gastroenterologist and the founder of GastroDoxs. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

Common Causes and Risk Factors

Not eating enough calories or protein
Chronic illnesses such as cancer or kidney disease
Digestive disorders that impair nutrient absorption
Age-related appetite loss and digestive changes
Limited access to nutritious food in some communities

Signs and Symptoms

Unplanned weight loss
Muscle wasting or decreased strength
Persistent fatigue or weakness
Swelling (edema) in abdomen, feet, or ankles
Slow-healing cuts or wounds
Frequent infections
Hair thinning or brittle nails

Expert Treatment for Protein-Calorie Malnutrition by Dr. Bharat Pothuri

Dr. Pothuri uses a step-by-step approach:

Medical History and Physical Exam

He reviews your eating habits, unintentional weight changes, underlying health issues and risk factors.

Anthropometric Measurements

We measure your weight, body mass index (BMI) and muscle mass to identify loss of lean tissue.

Laboratory Tests

Serum albumin and prealbumin levels to assess protein stores.
Vitamin and mineral panels to detect micronutrient deficiencies.
Inflammatory markers (e.g., C-reactive protein) to gauge acute phase response.

Severity Assessment and ICD-10 Coding

Using validated malnutrition criteria, he determines whether it's moderate (E44.1) or severe (E43) and documents the correct code.

Treatment

Our Team offers a full range of care for protein-calorie malnutrition.

1. Lifestyle and Diet Modifications

Personalized high-protein, high-calorie meal plans based on your tastes
Small, frequent meals to maximize nutrient intake and support digestion
Nutritional drinks or protein shakes when additional calories are needed

2. Medications

Appetite stimulants to help increase daily food consumption
Digestive aids or enzyme supplements to improve nutrient absorption
Targeted vitamin and mineral supplementation based on lab results

3. Minimally Invasive or Advanced Procedures

Endoscopic feeding tube placement for patients unable to meet needs orally
Endoscopic evaluation and treatment of gastrointestinal blockages or strictures
Ongoing monitoring and adjustment of nutritional support through follow-up visits

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Patients Treated

Dr. Pothuri has treated more than 1K patients, helping individuals improve their digestive health and overall well-being through expert, personalized care.

20Y

Years of Experience

With over 20 years of experience, GastroDoxs has been a trusted provider of gastroenterology care, focusing on delivering the best outcomes for patients

About the Author

Dr. Bharat Pothuri is a Board-Certified Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist. With extensive experience in digestive health, he specializes in advanced endoscopic procedures, chronic GI disorder management, and preventive care. Dr. Pothuri is dedicated to providing expert, patient-focused insights to help improve gut health and overall well-being.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the types of protein-calorie malnutrition?

Protein-calorie malnutrition ranges from moderate (ICD-10 code E44.1) to severe (E43) based on clinical criteria like weight loss, muscle wasting, and lab values.

How long does recovery take?

Recovery time varies by severity and individual response. Most patients see improvement within weeks to a few months with proper nutritional support.

Will my insurance cover this care?

Most insurance plans cover diagnostic workups and medical nutrition therapy. Our team will help verify your benefits and guide you through the process.

Can children have this condition?

Yes. Children can develop PCM from inadequate intake, chronic illness, or absorption issues. We offer tailored care for all ages at GastroDoxs.

What are the criteria for diagnosing PCM?

Diagnosis is based on unintentional weight loss, low serum protein levels, muscle wasting, edema, and decreased functional status.

Do I need to take supplements?

Supplements like protein shakes or fortified drinks can help you meet daily calorie and protein goals, especially during the recovery phase.

When is a feeding tube necessary?

A feeding tube is recommended if oral intake does not meet your nutritional needs. This decision follows a full evaluation and careful planning.

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