Anorexia nervosa is defined as a psychiatric condition characterized by an obsession with weight loss and distorted perception of self body image. Anorexics may lose weight to the point where their life is danger yet they will still be convinced that they need to lose more. There are two types of anorexia, classic anorexia (restricting anorexia) and binge eating/purging anorexia.
• Classic- Individual eats very little and/or exercises excessively. Calorie consumption not adequate to support body functions.
• Binging/purging anorexia- Person will restrict calories but also periodically binge-eat and then “purge” by vomiting or misusing laxatives. These individuals have symptoms of both anorexia and bulimia.
Symptoms of Anorexia
• Extremely low body weight (15% or more below the ideal for age, bone structure and height)
• Dislike of eating in public
• Anxiety
• Weakness/ lethargy
• Shortness of breath
• Fine downy hair on the arms, as an adaptive measure against extremely low body weight.
Effects of Anorexia
The physical and emotional toll of anorexia can be immense. Physically, dramatic weight loss can impair the body in multiple ways. The immune system is weakened, therefore making the individual vulnerable to illness. The hair may thin and become brittle. The heart may develop palpitations and in severe cases heart failure may occur. Endocrinal function is compromised, in females this may result in cessation of menstrual periods. Loss of sex drive is common in both males and females.
The emotional effects may include irritability and unpredictable mood swings. Depression usually accompanies anorexia, and sufferers may become withdrawn from friends and family. They will have difficulty focusing on anything apart from their weight and appearance.
Causes of Anorexia
The causes of anorexia are complex and are different for every individual. However there are certain personality traits that are typical and may make someone more likely to develop the disease, such as low self esteem, perfectionism, and obsessive compulsive tendencies. These traits can often be a consequence of an earlier life trauma. This trauma, sometimes called developmental trauma, can affect both and individual’s biology and psychology. There is often a link between childhood sexual abuse and anorexia. Other conditions such as depression, anxiety and ADHD may also lead to anorexia.
Anorexia Treatment
Treating anorexia can be difficult, as most sufferers don’t believe they have a problem. Weight loss may go unnoticed for some time as they often favor loose fitting clothing to hide their appearance. If symptoms are noticed within the first 6 months and weight loss is only moderate, then counselling often suffices with no need for hospitalization. However often it is only when weight loss has become severe that the problem is diagnosed and intervention is made. In these more serious scenarios the patient may be hospitalized. Patients will often be in a special wing for individuals suffering from anorexia and bulimia. Along with ensuring an adequate calorie intake patients will also undergo regular counseling sessions. Anti depressant medication may also be necessary. This process may take a year or more. Much like an alcoholic , even though the disease is in remission the tendency towards developing it will always be there. Patients often regress, and therefore former anorexics must remain self aware and vigilant to prevent relapses.
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Comments
anorexia is treatable.. as long as we work together.. nice work..
Comment by anorexia — November 4, 2008