Anorexia
Richard Hernandez
Definition
Symptoms
Dangers
- Starvation can damage vital organs such as the brain and heart
- To protect itself, the body shifts into "slow gear"
- Monthly menstrual periods stop
- Breathing, pulse, and blood pressure rates drop
- Thyroid function slows
- Monthly menstrual periods stop
- Nails and hair become brittle
- Skin gets dry, yellows, and becomes covered with soft hair called lanugo
- Excessive thirst and urination may occur
- Dehydration contributes to constipation
- Reduced body fat leads to lowered body temperatures and an inability to withstand cold weather
- Mild anemia, swollen joints, reduced muscle mass, and light-headedness also commonly occur in anorexic individuals
If the disorder becomes severe, patients may lose calcium from their bones, making them brittle and prone to breakage. They also may experience irregular heart rhythms and heart failure.
In some patients, the brain shrinks, causing personality changes. Fortunately, this condition can be reversed when normal weight is re-established.
Scientists have found that many patients with anorexia also suffer from other psychiatric illnesses. While the majority have co-occurring clinical depression, others suffer fromanxiety, personality or substance-abuse disorders, and many are at risk for suicide.
Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), an illness characterized by repetitive thoughts and behaviors, can also accompany anorexia. Individuals with anorexia are typically compliant in personality but may have sudden outbursts of hostility and anger or become socially withdrawn.
2 ways to find help
go to a treatment center