Anorexia nervosa is a serious eating disorder characterized by self-imposed starvation and an intense fear of gaining weight. Symptoms can vary widely between individuals, but common signs and symptoms include:
Behavioral Symptoms:
- Severe restriction of food intake: Rigid dieting, fasting, or avoidance of certain food groups.
- Preoccupation with food: Obsessively thinking about food, dieting, and body size.
- Excessive exercise: Compulsively exercising in order to lose weight or maintain control over body shape.
- Social withdrawal: Avoiding social situations that involve food and eating.
- Denial of hunger: Ignoring physical signs of hunger or claiming not to feel hungry.
Emotional Symptoms:
- Intense fear of gaining weight: An overwhelming fear of becoming overweight, even if underweight.
- Body image distortion: Perceiving oneself as overweight, even when underweight.
- Low self-esteem: A poor self-image and lack of self-worth often tied to body weight and shape.
- Irritability or mood swings: Changes in mood and increased irritability.
Physical Symptoms:
- Significant weight loss: Dramatic decrease in body weight, often to a dangerously low level.
- Fatigue: Feeling constantly tired or weak.
- Cold intolerance: A sensitivity to cold due to loss of body fat.
- Dry skin and hair: Skin may become dry, and hair may become brittle or fall out.
- Menstrual irregularities: Absence of menstruation (amenorrhea) in women.
- Insomnia: Difficulty sleeping or maintaining sleep.
Health Complications:
Anorexia nervosa can lead to severe health complications, including:
- Heart issues: Irregular heartbeats, potential heart failure due to electrolyte imbalances.
- Bone density loss: Osteoporosis or increased risk of fractures.
- Kidney and liver complications: Possible kidney failure or liver damage.
- Gastrointestinal problems: Slowed digestion, constipation, or abdominal pain.
If you or someone you know is showing symptoms of anorexia nervosa, it is important to seek professional help as early intervention can be crucial for recovery.