question archive When you read the testimonials and memoirs of survivors of WWII concentration camps, many of them mention that the weight loss form severe malnutrition was quite remarkable, and yet, their ankles and feet would get so swollen that walking would become difficult

When you read the testimonials and memoirs of survivors of WWII concentration camps, many of them mention that the weight loss form severe malnutrition was quite remarkable, and yet, their ankles and feet would get so swollen that walking would become difficult

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When you read the testimonials and memoirs of survivors of WWII concentration camps, many of them mention that the weight loss form severe malnutrition was quite remarkable, and yet, their ankles and feet would get so swollen that walking would become difficult. How do you explain the swelling in the lower extremities in the concentration camp victims?

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Answer:

Severe malnutrition can cause a number of health related problems in our body. One of which is edema or swelling of body parts.

Malnutrition leads to disbalance in body fluids. Low levels of protein, especially albumin in blood is a major factor which causes swelling. Albumin, because of it's structure attracts sodium ions and water molecules. It helps to retain fluid in blood vessels. When albumin level becomes extremely low, fluid may start leaking, resulting in water retention in lower body parts such as ankles and feet.