Anorexia nervosa is the occurrence of extreme weight loss as a result of inadequate consumption of the nutrients the body needs. It is a serious eating disorder resulting from the interaction of psychological and physiological factors. It is often characterized by an obsessive desire to lose excess weight and an effort to reduce body weight. People with anorexia nervosa have disturbed perceptions of their own body weight and shape and often have extremely negative thoughts about their bodies.
Anorexia nervosa is known as an eating disorder, usually seen among teenagers and adults. Anorexia is characterized by a person's avoidance or extreme restriction of eating, excessive reduction of body weight, and obsessive thoughts and behaviors related to body image. Treatment for anorexia nervosa can positively impact a person's health and quality of life by addressing the medical and psychological components. People with anorexia and their families should seek professional help to combat this challenging illness. The good news is that anorexia is a treatable condition and with appropriate treatment there is a chance of recovery.
Anorexia nervosa is not only an eating disorder at its core, but there are underlying psychological conditions. In this case, a multidisciplinary approach is needed. It should be known that anorexia is usually seen in women and is common in adolescence. Anorexia is a behavior as a result of not liking one's appearance. Long-term dieting, eating little and one type of food causes anorexia nervosa. If the individual has some psychological problems, the possibility of anorexia nervosa may increase a little more.
What Causes Anorexia Nervosa?
Anorexia nervosa is a psychiatric disorder with a complex etiology (causes) and can be caused by a combination of multiple factors. The causes of anorexia can vary from person to person and may not be the same for everyone. Among the causes of anorexia, anorexia is seen when the person finds himself overweight and wants to lose weight due to this and continues to follow this diet after losing weight. Another reason may be the pressure exerted on the person by friends or relatives. As a result of the pressure, the person may be uncomfortable with his/her appearance and this may become a psychological problem.
The treatment of anorexia requires an individualized approach. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment are important in the fight against anorexia nervosa and can have a positive impact on a person's health and quality of life.
What are the Symptoms of Anorexia Nervosa?
Symptoms of anorexia nervosa can manifest in different ways. Some of them may manifest themselves clearly in the person.
The most prominent symptom of anorexia is feeling overweight even though one is thin and feeling the need to diet, or continuing to diet despite losing weight after dieting (chronic dieting).
Symptoms such as not wanting to eat, skipping meals, and difficulty in eating may also be observed because the stomach and intestines are exposed to heavy diets.
- Chronic weakness and fatigue are observed.
- The body may be weakened due to lack of diet and the immune system may weaken.
- Pale skin appears, hair becomes thinner and falls out, and nails break.
- As the stomach shrinks, there may be a desire to vomit after a meal.
- Calorie calculation of food is another symptom (obsessive).
- A monotonous diet is maintained.
- Menstrual irregularities are observed.
- Bowel problems (diarrhea, constipation, inability to go to the toilet).
- Mental disorders (depression) may develop.
- The bones can be counted, which is seen in cases where anorexia progresses.
- Constantly low body temperature is another symptom.
- Memory problems, difficulty in perception or distraction may be observed.
How is Anorexia Nervosa Treated?
Treatment of anorexia nervosa is a complex process that requires a multidisciplinary approach. It addresses both physical and psychological components and is designed to restore the patient's physical health, promote healthy eating habits and address emotional issues.
Early diagnosis of anorexia is very important. Because the longer the eating disorder continues, the more damage is done to the body and irreversible situations can be encountered. This is not a condition that an individual can handle on his/her own and treat himself/herself. Anorexia requires both physical and psychological treatment. Once an individual is diagnosed with anorexia nervosa, they should see a psychiatrist, otherwise treatment cannot be successful because anorexia nervosa is a psychological problem as well as an eating disorder. The treatment of anorexia nervosa can be successful with joint efforts. The individual is brought to the body weight he/she should be.
Lifestyle Changes and Things to do for Anorexia Nervosa
Patients with anorexia nervosa need to continue their psychological and nutritional treatment in addition to their medical treatment. For this, it is necessary to stick to the treatment plan.
- Taking appropriate vitamins and minerals
- Preventing frequent weighing
- Never go to herbal treatments without expert advice
- Sports such as pilates and yoga
- Regular exercise
- When there is a problem, first consult with the expert and get information
