WHAT IS ANOREXIA NERVOSA?

A psychological eating disorder in which a person, in spite of being hungry, refuses to eat adequately, loses enough weight and become emaciated.

The illness usually begins with a normal weight-loss diet. The person eats very little, and refuses to stop dieting after a reasonable weight loss.

SEX OR AGE MOST AFFECTED

Female adolescents and young adults.

SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

• 25% weight loss without physical illness.
• High energy level despite body wasting.
• Intense fear of obesity.
• Depression.
• Appetite loss.
• Constipation.
• Cold intolerance.
• Refusal to maintain a minimum standard weight for age and height.
• Distorted body image. The person continues to feel fat--even when emaciated.
• In rare cases stoppage of menstrual periods.

CAUSES

Unknown. However, many patients have family and internal conflicts, including sexual conflicts.

RISK INCREASES WITH

• Peer pressure to be thin.
• History of slight overweight.
• Perfectionist, compulsive or overachieving personalities.
• Psychological stress.

HOW TO PREVENT

Confront personal problems realistically. Try to correct or cope with problems with the help of counselors, therapists, family and friends.

DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES

• Typical history and symptoms.
• Laboratory blood tests for anemia and electrolyte imbalance.

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Chronic anorexia nervosa caused by patient's resistance to treatment.
• Electrolyte disturbances or irregular heartbeat. These may be life-threatening.

PROBABLE OUTCOME

Treatable if the patient recognizes the emotional disturbance, wants help and cooperates in treatment. Without treatment, this can cause permanent disability and death. Persons with anorexia nervosa have a high rate of attempted suicide due to low self-esteem.

TREATMENT

GENERAL MEASURES

Hospitalization may be required for intravenous fluids. The goal of treatment is for the patient to establish healthy eating patterns to regain normal weight. The patient can accomplish this with behavior-modification training supervised by a qualified professional.

MEDICATION

One may be prescribed antidepressants.

ACTIVITY

No restrictions.

DIET

No special diet. You may be prescribed vitamin and mineral supplements.

CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR, IF

• You have symptoms of anorexia nervosa or notice them in a family member
• Life-threatening symptoms occur, including: rapid, irregular heartbeat; chest pain; or loss of consciousness. Call immediately. This is an emergency!
• Weight loss continues, despite treatment.