Anorexia Nervosa

What are the signs and symptoms of anorexia?

People who have anorexia try to hide their condition, so others may not notice the signs and symptoms of the eating disorder. The warning signs and symptoms of anorexia include:
 

  • dramatic weight loss; refusal to maintain the minimal normal body weight for one’s age and height
     
  • basing self-worth on body weight and body image
     
  • frequent skipping of meals, with excuses for not eating
    eating only a few foods, especially those low in fat and calories
     
  • making meals for others, but not eating the meals themselves
     
  • frequent weighing of oneself and focusing on tiny fluctuations in weight
     
  • wearing baggy clothing to cover up thinness
     
  • excessive focus on an exercise regimen
     
  • frequent looking in the mirror for flaws
     
  • avoidance of social gatherings where food is involved
     
  • even when thin, complaining about being overweight
     
  • in females, missing three consecutive menstrual periods; in males, decreased sexual desire

What are the types of anorexia?


There are two types of anorexia, based on whether the anorexia is combined with bulimia:

Classic Anorexia (Restricting Anorexia) – The person eats very little and loses weight through self-starvation or excessive exercise. Calories consumed are insufficient to support bodily functions and activities.

Binge-Eating/Purging Anorexia – In addition to cutting the intake of calories, this person also binges and purges (self-induced vomiting, or misuse of laxatives, diuretics, or enemas. The person has symptoms of both anorexia and bulimia. About 50% of people with anorexia also develop bulimia.




(Source: http://www.helpguide.org)


 

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