Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder, more importantly a psychological disorder. People with anorexia nervosa try to maintain a weight that is far below what is normal for their age and height, and tend to starve themselves and exercise excessively. Anorexia nervosa isn't really about food; it's basically an unhealthy way of coping with emotional problems. This effects females far more often than males and is quite common in adolescence.
What are the signs and symptoms of Anorexia Nervosa?
Anorexia has a number of emotional, physical and behavioural signs and symptoms.
Physical symptoms include:
• Thin appearance
• Fatigue and insomnia
• Dizziness or fainting
• Abnormal blood counts
• Constipation and dry skin
• An absence of menstruation
• Hair that thins or falls out
• Very soft, downy hair covering the body
• Intolerance to cold
• Osteoporosis and swelling of arms or legs
• Dehydration
• Low blood pressure
Emotional & Behavioural symptoms include:
• Irritability
• Preoccupation with food
• A reduced interest in sex
• Social withdrawal
• Lack of emotion
• Afraid of gaining weight
• Refusal to eat
• Denial of hunger
• Lying about how much food he or she has eaten
• A depressed mood
• Possible use of laxatives, herbal products or diet aids
If you're experiencing any symptoms that have been mentioned above or if you think you have an eating disorder, please get help immediately!
