Anorexia Nervosa is a serious eating disorder that typically emerges during mid-to-late adolescence (ages 13–18) and is characterized by intense fear of weight gain, leading to severe dietary restrictions. This condition deeply impacts both physical and mental health and can become life-threatening if not treated. In this article, we will discuss the symptoms, causes, and treatment of anorexia nervosa.
What Is Anorexia Nervosa?
Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder triggered by extreme concerns about body weight and appearance. Individuals are usually significantly underweight, yet still fear gaining weight. They often have a distorted body image and remain unaware of how thin they have become, continuing to believe they are overweight. Many refuse to acknowledge that their extremely low body weight is a problem. This creates a cycle of starvation and weight loss that severely lowers quality of life.
What Are the Symptoms?
The symptoms of anorexia nervosa can be divided into three categories:
Physical Symptoms:
Extreme weight loss
Low blood pressure and heart rate
Constant cold feeling
Dry and pale skin
Disrupted menstrual cycles in women
Brittle nails
Hair loss
Psychological Symptoms:
Distorted body image (feeling fat despite being very thin)
Fear of gaining weight
Perfectionism
Low self-esteem
Avoidance of social situations
Behavioral Symptoms:
Avoiding food or eating very little
Obsession with calories and nutritional information
Excessive exercising
Hiding or discarding food, pretending to have eaten
Use of laxatives or self-induced vomiting
Rituals like cooking for others but refusing to eat with them
What Are the Causes?
There is no single known cause for anorexia nervosa, but it is believed to stem from a combination of genetic, biological, psychological, and environmental factors:
Genetic Factors: A family history of eating disorders increases the risk.
Psychological Factors: Traits like perfectionism, a need for control, and traumatic experiences raise susceptibility.
Social Pressures: Media and cultural emphasis on thinness play a significant role.
Brain Chemistry: Imbalances in neurotransmitters such as serotonin may trigger anorexia.
What Are the Treatment Methods?
Anorexia nervosa requires a multidisciplinary approach and does not resolve on its own. Treatment should include psychological support, medical supervision, and nutritional counseling. If the individual has lost more than 30% of their ideal weight, hospitalization is recommended.
Psychotherapy:
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): Aims to change harmful thought patterns and behaviors.
Family-Based Therapy (FBT): Especially effective for adolescents, involving family in the recovery process.
Medical Treatment:
Medical intervention may be necessary to restore nutritional balance.
Monitoring for potential damage to the heart, kidneys, or other organs is crucial.
Nutritional Counseling:
Helps individuals relearn healthy and balanced eating habits.
Medication:
It may be used to treat accompanying psychiatric conditions like anxiety or depression.
Common Misconceptions and Facts About Anorexia Nervosa:
“They just want to lose weight.” → Anorexia nervosa is a serious psychological disorder, not just about weight control.
“They lack willpower.” → It stems from complex biological and psychological processes, not weak will.
“It only affects young women.” → While more common in women, anorexia can occur in any gender and at any age.
