Anorexia Nervosa
Anorexia Nervosa usually begins in teen years but can occur even earlier or later in life. It happens more often in females but can happen in males too. In fact it is more common in males than most people think. It is reported that one in every six people with anorexia are male. Anorexia occurs when one has low self esteem, and dissatisfaction with appearance. This results in severe dieting, and/or excessive exercise. When someone does not feel good about themselves or have been told they are too fat or overweight, made fun of, etc., they are apt to become anorexic so they can ‘fit in’ with the crowd. This situation can lead to some very serious health problems that will need medical attention as soon as possible. Anorexia Nervosa can cause health problems such as anemia, heart problems, bone loss, lung problems, absence of periods in females, and decreased testosterone in males, gastrointestinal problems, low blood potassium, sodium or chloride, kidney disorders, mental problems such as depression, anxiety disorders, personality disorders, obsessive compulsive disorders, and drug abuse.
Some of the red flags to watch for if you suspect a family member has anorexia is skipping meals, making excuses not to eat, eating just a few foods low in fat and calories, cutting food into small pieces or spitting food out after eating, weighing the food, cooking large meals for family but not eating themselves, looking in the mirror often for flaws, wearing baggy clothes, and complaining about being fat. It is believed that anorexia can be caused by peer pressure, an inherited trait, or other reasons. It is believed that it can be caused by biological, sociocultural, and psychological factors. The victim may have a low self esteem of themselves, a desire to look like the skinny models we see everyday on television and in magazines, and part of the reason may be from other family members who also have an eating disorder.
No matter what causes anorexia, the fact is it needs to be attended to as soon as possible. Severe anorexia can cause every part of the body to suffer if not taken care of. There are tests the doctor can give the patient to diagnose anorexia. Many people do not want to get help in the beginning. Often they start suffering from different health issues before they realize they are in trouble and their life may be at steak if they do not seek help. Treatment of anorexia may need several types of treatment. They may need emergency treatment for problems such as dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and psychiatric problems. The main thing to be concerned about is to diagnose and get the victim help as soon as possible to avoid severe health issues.
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