Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder often characterized by a distorted body image. There is significant weight loss and difficulty maintaining an appropriate body weight. The exact cause of anorexia is not well understood, but it involves a combination of self-esteem and body-image issues, genetic factors, and societal pressures.
Symptoms of anorexia nervosa can include restricting food intake, compulsive exercise, overuse of laxatives, extreme weight loss, and preoccupation with weight, food, calories, and diet. Poor nutritional status and weight loss can also cause symptoms throughout the body. Examples of possible associated signs and symptoms are dizziness, constipation, feeling cold, sleep disturbances, irregular menstruation, muscle weakness, poor wound healing, thinning hair, damage to enamel of the teeth, delayed puberty, and difficulty concentrating.
Other anorexia nervosa symptoms and signs
- Abdominal Pain
- Absence of Menstrual Periods (Amenorrhea)
- Anemia
- Anxiety
- Arrhythmia
- Brittle Nails
- Bruising
- Compulsive Behavior
- Constipation
- Damage to Tooth Enamel
- Delayed Puberty
- Depression
- Diabetes Insipidus
- Dieting
- Difficulty With Concentration
- Dizziness
- Dry Hair and Skin
- Excessive Exercising
- Extreme Weight Loss
- Fatigue
- Fine, Downy Hair on Face and Body
- Guilt
- Headache
- High Cholesterol Levels
- Hormonal Imbalances
- Impulsivity
- Irregular Menstruation
- Irritability
- Low Body Temperature (Hypotension)
- Muscle Weakness
- Osteoporosis
- Overuse of Diet Pills
- Overuse of Diuretics, Enemas, or Laxatives
- Sensitivity to Cold
- Sleep Problems
- Slow Heart Rate (Bradycardia)
- Social Isolation
- Thinning Hair
Main Article on Anorexia Nervosa Symptoms and Signs
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Eating Disorders: Anorexia, Bulimia, Binge Eating See Slideshow
Examples of Medications for Anorexia Nervosa Symptoms and Signs
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