Anorexia Nervosa (cont.)
What are anorexia symptoms and signs (physical)?
Most of the medical complications of anorexia nervosa
result from starvation. Few organs are spared the progressive deterioration brought about by anorexia.
- Heart and circulatory system: Although not life-threatening, an abnormally slow heart
rate (bradycardia) and
unusually low blood pressure (hypotension) are frequent manifestations of starvation and are
commonly associated with anorexia. Of greater significance are disturbances in
the heart rhythm (arrhythmia). A reduction in the work capacity of the heart is associated with severe weight loss and starvation.
- Gastrointestinal
complications are also associated with anorexia. Constipation and
abdominal pain
are the most common symptoms. The rate at which food is absorbed into the body
is slowed down. Starvation and overuse of laxatives can seriously disrupt the
body's normal functions involved in the elimination process. While
liver function is generally found to be normal, there is evidence of
changes in enzyme levels and overall damage to the liver.
- The glandular (endocrine) system in the body is
profoundly affected by anorexia. The complex physical and chemical processes involved in the maintenance of life can be disrupted, with serious consequences. Disturbances in the menstrual cycle are frequent, and secondary amenorrhea (absence of menstrual periods) affects about 90% of adolescent girls with anorexia. Menstrual period typically return with weight gain and successful treatment. Hormonal imbalances are found in men with anorexia as well. Continual restrictive eating can trick the thyroid into thinking that the body is starving, causing it to slow down in an attempt to preserve calories.
- Kidney (renal) function may appear normal. However, there are significant changes in
kidney function in many people with anorexia, resulting in potassium deficiency,
increased urination, or decreased urination.
- Bone density loss (osteopenia or thinning of the bones) is a significant complication of anorexia, since women acquire 40%-60% of their bone mass during adolescence. Studies have shown that bone loss can occur fairly rapidly in girls with anorexia. While some studies have shown that bone density may be restored if overall health improves and anorexia is successfully treated, other studies suggest that an increased risk for fracture may persist later in life.
- Anorexics who use a large quantity
of laxatives or who frequently vomit are at great risk for
electrolyte imbalance, which can have life-threatening consequences.
- Anemia is frequently found in anorexic patients.
Suppressed immunity and a high risk for infection
are suspected but not clinically proven.
- Physical symptoms, other than the obvious loss of
weight, can be seen. Anorexia can cause dry, flaky skin that takes on a yellow
tinge. Fine, downy hair grows on the face, back, arms, and legs. Despite this
new hair growth, loss of hair on the head is not uncommon. Nails can become
brittle. Frequent vomiting can erode dental enamel and eventually lead to tooth
loss.
Next: How is anorexia treated? »
- amino acids-injection, Aminosyn, Freamine, Travasol - Consumer information about the medication AMINO ACIDS - INJECTION (Aminosyn, Freamine, Travasol), includes side effects, drug interactions, recommended dosages, and storage information. Read more about the prescription drug AMINO ACIDS - INJECTION.
- Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) - Obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) is an anxiety disorder that causes a person to suffer repeated obsessions and compulsions. Learn symptoms, diagnosis and treatment.
- fat emulsions-injection, Intralipid, Liposyn, Nutrilipid - Consumer information about the medication FAT EMULSIONS - INJECTION (Intralipid, Liposyn, Nutrilipid), includes side effects, drug interactions, recommended dosages, and storage information. Read more about the prescription drug FAT EMULSIONS - INJECTION.
Latest Medical News
|
|
 |
From WebMD
Emotional Health Resources
Featured Centers
|
Mental Health RSS