Anorexia nervosa is a mental disorder that is diagnosed in people who are extremely obsessed with their weight and fear gaining weight. These individuals live on a low-calorie food regimen and follow extreme food restrictions, which often leads to complications. The condition requires treatment, as it can prove to be life-threatening if left untreated for a long time. Here is an overview of the disorder and the treatment options available.

Causes of anorexia

The exact reason for the occurrence of this condition is not known, but experts do indicate that the problem may be triggered due to environmental, genetic, or biological factors. There could also be some other factors contributing to this condition, and these could include:

• Criticism faced in social circles related to eating habits, body weight, and structure
• Bullying due to body weight or shape
• Societal pressure to maintain weight and stay slim
• Low self-esteem
• History of sexual abuse
• External pressure to fit in as per cultural norms
• Trying out various diet fads in the past
• Family history of mental disorder

Some people may develop it as a means of achieving control over their lives.

Symptoms of anorexia

The most significant indication of the disorder is severe weight loss. This could result in a deficiency of nutrients that is exhibited by physical signs and symptoms such as:

• Severe fatigue
• Significant loss of muscle mass
• Feeling of dizziness
• Reduced blood pressure
• Bloating or an upset stomach
• Severe dry skin
• Inflammation in the hands and feet
• Lack of sleep
• Infertility
• Frequent fractures due to loss of bone density
• Constipation
• Brittle nails

There are certain behavioral changes also seen in people suffering from anorexia nervosa, these include:

• Reducing the overall intake of food consumed
• Indulging in lots of physical exercises or taking laxatives
• Frequently checking their weight and body shape
• Avoiding mealtimes
• Withdrawing from the social circle
• Displaying signs of depression
• Displaying extra concern over body weight, size, calories, and food
• Preparing meals for others but not eating.

Treatment options for a norexia

The treatment plan for anorexia nervosa depends on the individual’s condition. The general treatment aims to help the patient overcome physical, social, emotional, and psychological health problems. Some of the treatment options available for patients are:

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

This treatment aims to help patients address prejudiced views and attitudes related to body structure, weight, and appearance. It will help them find novel ways of thinking, managing stress, and behaving.

Dialectical Behavior Therapy

This treatment plan aims to motivate patients to develop new skills so that it helps in better recognizing and handling negative triggers and situations that can lead to non-useful behavior. These skills may include handling stress, managing emotions, establishing strong interpersonal relationships, and building mindfulness.

Maudsley Method

This form of treatment is also known as family-based therapy. The treatment involves educating the parents or family members about the patient’s condition to ensure that they receive adequate nutrition.

Acceptance and commitment therapy

This form of treatment for anorexia motivates patients to change their actions instead of their thoughts and feelings.

Nutritional counseling

The treatment plan aims to guide the patient about the relevance of nutrition and a healthy diet. Additionally, it also teaches the patient to take a healthy approach to weight and food choices.

Hospitalization

In severe cases, patients are hospitalized due to malnutrition and health complications.

Complications caused by anorexia

This eating disorder can have serious effects on the body and has been proven to be harmful. Some of the complications that can occur as a result of this disorder are:

• Cardiac issues that may include heart failure, slow heart rate, and arrhythmias
• Anemia
• Reduced blood pressure
• Imbalance of electrolytes in the body such as low levels of sodium and potassium
• Absence of periods in women
• A low level of testosterone in males
• Gastrointestinal complications such as constipation, vomiting, and bloating.
• Osteoporosis
• Problems related to the kidney.

If you or your loved ones are struggling to cope with this condition, speak to your doctor at the earliest as your body needs all the essential nutrients to function properly.