What is Anorexia?

Anorexia is an eating disorder in which a person limits food intake until starvation results. This creates numerous health issues over time, some of which may become irreversible. When someone has Anorexia, they become obsessed with their body image, food intake, and weight. Signs of anorexia become apparent, and action needs to be taken. 

What are the Symptoms of Anorexia?

Anorexia is often hard to detect because your loved one may not want you know what they are struggling with. They may make excuses and say that they have a different medical problem that is causing them to lose weight, or that prescription drugs are the reason. Only a doctor or medical professional can diagnose you or your loved one with Anorexia. The symptoms of Anorexia may include the following:

• Weak immune system
• Thin appearance
• Weight Loss
• Brittle Nails
• Hair breakage
• Overall weakness
• Fainting
• Seizures
• Irregular blood counts
• Abnormal blood pressure
• Dry skin
• Bothered by cold weather
• Constipation
• Higher level of liver enzymes
• Missed periods
• Headaches and dizziness

What are the signs of Anorexia?

In the early stages of Anorexia, one may focus on diet and food intake excessively. Over time, Anorexia may begin to affect many areas of a person’s life. Some affected by Anorexia may be forced to drop out of school, quit their jobs, stray away from family and friends, lose faith in their religion, or even end up committing suicide. The disorder starts to take over more and more time from an anorexic person since they become obsessed with eating and exercising. Behaviors to look for in anorexics include:  

• Obsession with body image and weight
• Denial of hunger
• Not eating
• Eating only foods with very little calorie content
• Excessive diet and exercise
• Emotionless moods
• Complaints about body image
• Food preparation rituals
• Constant weighing of self
• Wearing of over-sized clothing

Irreversible Effects of Anorexia

Diagnosis and recovery of Anorexia are very important for a person with Anorexia since without help horrible side effects of the disorder may ensue. Possible irreversible side effects of Anorexia may include infertility, organ shut down, heart failure, brain damage, and even death.

Seeking Help for Anorexia

If you or someone that you know is struggling with Anorexia, help is available. Willow Place for Women has extensive experience in the aid of women with Anorexia. Because the effects of Anorexia can become irreversible and even deadly if not caught in time, finding help right away is imperative. Do not hesitate to seek help for you or your loved one!