Anorexia, also called anorexia nervosa, is not just an eating disorder but a mental health condition. People who have anorexia limit the amount of food they eat. Find out more below
What is Anorexia
Anorexia nervosa, also called anorexia, is not just an eating disorder but a mental health condition.
People who have anorexia limit the amount of food they eat. They go as far as starving themselves, counting calories, or binge eating and taking laxatives after meals to ensure their stomachs and bowels are empty” or “use of laxatives to evacuate or empty their bowels after meals.
This is because the fear of gaining weight consumes them, and they have a distorted view of their body.
Symptoms of Anorexia
Significant or extreme weight loss
Underweight, a BMI index less than 18kg/m2
Excessive physical activity
Fatigue
Dehydration
Depression and anxiety
Dry skin
Hair thinning and loss
Who does Anorexia affect?
Anorexia can affect different ages and genders.
However, this can affect more women than men, especially in their teenage years.
Factors that contribute to Anorexia
Factors that can contribute to anorexia include:
Genetics
Societal pressure and standards
Psychological factors like struggles with anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem
Related health complication
Aside from weight loss and malnutrition, anorexia can lead to health complications. These include:
Anaemia
Kidney problems
Memory loss and loss of cognitive function
Osteoporosis and loss of muscle mass (sarcopenia)
Constipation and delayed emptying of the stomach (gastroparesis)
Abnormally low heart rate (bradycardia) and low blood pressure (hypotension)
Low testosterone levels in males
Irregular or absent menstrual periods
Management and treatment
Anorexia is not always a choice or a lifestyle.
Managing and treating anorexia requires a lot of compassion, patience, and professional help.
Getting professional help involves:
Psychological therapy: A psychologist will help you to unlearn unhealthy thoughts and behaviour about food. Antidepressants may be prescribed to manage stress and other psychological effects of anorexia.
Medical care: Your doctor will first perform a full body assessment. They may also provide treatment options, including prescription nutritional supplements, to ease the complications of anorexia.
Nutritional counselling. A dietician will teach you about proper nutrition and what your body needs. They will also provide you with specialised meal plans.
Remember that recovery is possible. When you notice the signs, kindly seek professional help.
