Almost everyone is afraid of getting too big. But in
some people, this anxiety becomes obsessive and leads to an affection called
nerve anorexia. This is a eating disorder that can result in considerable
weight loss. An anorexic person cares obsessively about her weight and the
food she consumes.
She may be exercising too much. It may follow a very
low-calorie diet. People affected by anorexia nervosa have an excessive
fear of getting fat. They often have a better opinion of themselves when
they lose weight. According to the National Alliance for Mental Illness,
anorexia is most commonly diagnosed in adolescent girls, but it has also been
diagnosed in children as young as seven years and in adults until age of 80
years.
The exact cause of anorexia nervosa is unknown. People
who suffer from anorexia may have a negative perception of their
body. They can strive to always be perfect. They can look for ways to
control their lives. Other factors appear to play a role:
Biology
Genetics and hormones can have an effect on the development
of nerve anorexia. Some evidence suggests a link between anorexia and
serotonin, a chemical made in the brain.
Environment
The pressure exerted by a society that values slimness can
also contribute to the development of anorexia nervosa. Images in
magazines and on television can influence young girls a lot and make them want
to be slim.
Psychology
A person with an Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) may be
more likely to follow the strict diet and exercise program often followed by
anorexics. People with OCD do their best to achieve perfection and may
feel they will never reach it.
Anorexic people lose weight and maintain a very low weight
in different ways. Some impose very strict restrictions on their calorie
intake, others exercise too much. Some use a method of hyperphagia and
purge, similar to that used by bulimic people. Others use laxatives,
vomiting or diuretics to eliminate the food they have ingested. If you
suffer from nerve anorexia, you probably have some of the following symptoms:
- refusal to maintain normal weight
- tired
- insomnia
- yellowish or mottled skin and covered with fine and soft hair
- hair thinning and hair loss
- constipation
- absence of at least three consecutive menstrual cycles
- dry skin
- hypotension
You may also have noticed the following behaviors:
- you are exercising too much
- you push the food on your plate instead of eating it, or you cut it into small pieces
- irritability
- avoidance of social activities
- depressed mood
- denial of hunger
- use of diuretics, laxatives or appetite suppressants
The doctor will have to eliminate other possible causes of
weight loss, such as celiac disease and inflammatory bowel disease.
A medical examination will take your blood pressure and your
heart rate. Blood tests can be performed to check your electrolyte levels
and kidney function. A psychological examination can be conducted to ask
questions about your eating habits and feelings about food. In addition,
the doctor can check your bone density and the absence of cardiac
irregularities.
One of the most important obstacles to treating anorexia
nervosa is the misconception that you do not need help. Many anorexics do
not think they have a problem. This can make treatment difficult.
The primary goal of the treatment is to restore normal
weight and normal eating habits. A dietitian will help you learn how to
eat right. It may also be recommended that your family participate in
therapy with you. For most anorexics, their pathology is a lifelong
challenge.
Therapy
Anorexic people and their families must make great efforts to
overcome anorexia nervosa. Group, family and individual therapies are
often an integral part of treatment.
Individual therapy
A form of treatment called cognitive behavioral therapy
(CBT) is often used to treat anorexia nervosa. CBT helps to change unhealthy
thoughts and behaviors. Its goal is to help cope with strong emotions and
develop healthy self-esteem.
Family Therapy
This form of treatment requires the participation of your
family members to help you follow a healthy diet and lifestyle. Family
therapy also helps to resolve family conflicts. It can help support the
person who suffers from anorexia.
Group Therapy
This treatment allows anorexic people to interact with each
other. But it can sometimes lead to a competition to see who will be the
leanest. To avoid this, it is important that the group is led by a
qualified medical professional.
pharmaceuticals
Although there are currently no drugs capable of treating
anorexia nervosa, antidepressants can be prescribed to manage the anxiety and
depression that often accompany anorexia. It is possible that these
medications can help you feel better. But antidepressants do not reduce
the urge to lose weight.
Hospitalization
Depending on the severity of your weight loss, the doctor
may keep you in hospital for a few days to treat the effects of your
anorexia. You may be fed a feeding tube and receive intravenous fluids if
your weight is too low and you are dehydrated. If you continue to refuse
to eat or have psychiatric problems, the doctor may have you hospitalized for
intensive treatment.
Many cure anorexia. But a small percentage can
not. Some die from this pathology. Others may develop various eating
disorders. Some, to overcome anorexia, must receive treatment and care
throughout their lives. It may be helpful to join a support group for
anorexics.
There is no proven method of preventing anorexia. But
by being vigilant and recognizing the signs of this pathology, it is possible
to arrive at a rapid diagnosis, treatment and healing. If you or a loved
one starts becoming obsessed with your weight, too much exercise or being
dissatisfied with your appearance, it is recommended that you consult a
professional.
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