Anorexia nervosa often simply called anorexia is an eating disorder that can have fatal consequences. It is psychological and potentially life-threatening disorder in which a person is obsessed with body weight, body shape, and food intake.
People suffering from this disorder consume the very restrictive amount of food, which leads to starvation. Eventually, they become dangerously thin and malnourished. People with anorexia still perceive themselves as overweight. Even they deny that anything is wrong with them. However, eating disorder like anorexia can take your life and can be extremely difficult to overcome.
Signs And Symptoms:
The most common signs and symptoms of anorexia are related to starvation. However, it also includes emotional and behavioral issues. Which involve an unrealistic perception of body weight and an extremely dangerous fear of gaining weight or getting fat. There are also several common and noticeable signs and symptoms of anorexia such as:
- Extreme weight loss
- Abnormal blood counts
- Chronic restrictive eating or dieting
- Obsession with calories and fat contents of food
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Insomnia
- Constipation and abdominal pain
- An abnormal absence of menstrual cycle
- Loss or thinning of hair
- Dry or yellowish skin
- Irregular heart rhythm
- Low blood pressure
- Dehydration
- Depression and avoidance of social functions
- The reported sensation of feeling cold
- Swelling of arms or legs
- Bluish discoloration of the fingers
- Not wanting to eat in public
- Exercising excessively
- Self-induced vomiting to get rid of food
- Denial of hunger or making excuse for not eating
What Causes Anorexia?
The exact cause of anorexia is still unknown, but it has been said that a combination of genetics, biological, environmental, and psychological factors may contribute to the development of this. However, if this disorder runs in your family and if you have had a parent or sibling with an eating disorder then you are more prone to develop anorexia.
Some people have a genetic inclination towards perfection, sensitivity, and determination. These are characteristics of anorexia. In this fast-paced and modern world where everyone is influenced by western culture. You and I can also become conscious of perfect figure and shape.
Western culture has always been emphasizing on thinness and zero figure. In fact, success and worth are often equated with being thin. Among young and sensitive girls, peer pressure may also highlight the desire to be thin. Young girls really need to understand and consult with the doctor to overcome this pressure.
This is more common in young girls and women. However, boys and men can also develop an eating disorder, possibly due to growing social and peer pressures. People of any age can develop this eating disorder but it is rare in those over 40. If you’re concerned that you or someone you love may have this eating disorder, then consult with the doctor before it’s too late.
