Home » Anorexia: Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Anorexia : Symptoms, Causes and Treatment

Publish Date: 02 November, 2021; Author: Darren M. Jorgenson.

Anorexia refers to an eating disorder that is generally characterized by an abnormally low weight with a distorted weight perception and an intense fear of weight gain.

People with anorexia have a higher value on controlling their shape and weight while using extreme efforts tending to interfere with their lives significantly.

In order to continue losing weight or prevent weight gain, patients with anorexia generally restrict the food amount they eat. It is a severe mental health condition that refers to a potentially life-threatening eating disorder.

However, with the appropriate treatment, recovery is possible. It often involves emotional challenges, an exaggerated fear of weight gaining, and an unrealistic body image.

Also Read: How to Make Cannabutter? Simple and Easy Steps for this Recipe

What is Anorexia?

Anorexia is a complex health condition whose significant sign is lower body weight or extreme weight loss. However, the lack of nutrients may lead to physical symptoms and signs, including

Severe muscle mass loss
Low blood pressure
Dry skin
Listlessness, exhaustion, or fatigue
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Lower body temperature with cold feet and hands
Swollen feet and hands
Insomnia
Hair loss
Infertility
Less frequent periods
Brittle nails
Increased risk of fractures
Loss of bone intensity
Constipation
Irregular heart rate
Increased facial hair
Tooth decay
Bad breath

However, along with these signs and symptoms, a person may also demonstrate certain behaviors, including

Showing excessive concern with body size, calories, food, and weight
Exercising a lot
Taking laxatives
Limiting their food intake
Talking about being fat
Assessing their body size and weight frequently
Showing signs of depression
Cooking for others without eating
Denying feeling hungry
Withdrawing from social interactions and friends

How Anorexia Affects A Patient?

A patient with anorexia intentionally restricts their food intake as a way out to manage their emotional changes. Intentional dietary restrictions can also lead to several nutritional deficiencies that affect the overall health of a person.

And this all results in potentially life-threatening complications. The psychological and emotional challenges of anorexia can be complicated for a person to overcome.

However, the therapies to cope with it may include counseling, medical care, and nutritional advice.

Looking to Apply for an Medical Marijuana Card

Get Started by following these Steps:

1. Start FIlling up the 420 Evaluations form with your details.

2. Get Evaluated by a Local MMJ doctor once the submission is complete.

3. Get Approved and Receive your Letter In Your Email.

Apply Now

Causes of Anorexia

Since body shape and weight are the major concerns in this health condition, these are not the primary cause. However, a list of several factors may play a crucial role. This includes

A history of bullying or teasing about weight
Past criticism about weight, shape, and eating habits
Lower self-esteem
Having a personality that tends towards perfectionism
Anxiety
A sense of pressure from society
Historical trauma
Dieting
Pressure to fit in cultural norms
Intense fear of becoming fat or gaining weight

Diagnosis of the Anorexia

The prompt treatment and early diagnosis of the disease increase the chances of having a good outcome. The doctor may ask several questions to get an idea about the eating habits, mental and physical health.

Additionally, they may recommend some tests to rule out other underlying health conditions having similar symptoms and signs.

However, the National Eating Disorders Associations state that the below-mentioned criteria can help better to make the diagnosis.

Significantly lower body weight and energy intake restrictions for overall health, age, and sex.

Changes in the way a person experiences their body shape or weight, a body shape or weight’s disproportionate impact on a person’s self-image.

Recovery and Treatment

A medical doctor will make a comprehensive plan to address a person’s specific requirements. The strategies may include

Cognitive-behavioral therapy can help a person discover new ways of thinking, managing stress, and behaving.
Nutritional therapy that endows with information on food consumption and maintaining health.
Supplements to resolve nutritional deficiencies.
Medications to treat anxiety and depression.
Hospital treatment in several cases.

Tips to help manage a person with the disease

Be kind and respectful instead of being judgemental
Consider a treatment team including a therapist, dietician, or a psychiatrist
Look into treatment providers to find good matches
Ensure to get all the support possible
Review the treatment plan and introduce changes to get the best

Bottom Line!

Anorexia is an eating disorder that can be transformed into a severe medical health condition. It involves restricting the normal food intake that can lead to several nutritional deficiencies.

The health conditions’ effects can be life-threatening as well, but medication, counseling, and treatments can help cope with this condition. And early diagnosis can lead to a more positive outcome.