Anorexia Nervosa – What You Need to Know

September 7, 2011

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Unfortunately, sometimes dieting goes too far, and the result is a person who becomes a victim of self-starvation. When a person becomes so consumed with being thin that they deprive their bodies of food, they are in danger of becoming anorexic. Anorexia nervosa is identified by an unnatural obsession with thinness, self-starvation and intense exercise. A person who has anorexia nervosa has a poor body image and feels fat, even when they are very thin.

It is difficult to say what types of individual traits contribute to becoming anorexic. Often, effected people have low self-esteem and for this to improve, they need to change the way they look. Another characteristic of an anorexic is the need to be in control. If a person feels their life is spiraling out of control, they feel they only thing they can control is what they choose to eat. A person who has had abuse or trauma in their life may also be struggling to control something, so they control their food consumption. A person who strives for perfection may become anorexic, so they can be the “perfect” body weight.

An issue that is important in regards to anorexia nervosa is who the disorder effects. Most often, people assume women are the only people in society with this disorder, but this is not the case. While anorexia affects many women, men can also become victims. Cases of men who have anorexia often go unreported because men are ashamed to admit they have the illness. It goes against the common belief that men need to be strong and macho. According to the Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Association, another group of people affected by anorexia is adolescents. The changes that a youth’s body goes through during puberty can cause confusion, low body image, and weight fluctuations. These changes and feelings can lead to anorexia as a coping mechanism.

There are many warning specific warning signs of anorexia nervosa. These warning signs include:
A notable loss in weight
Denial of hunger and a decline in food consumption
Constant dieting, even when not over-weight
Absence of monthly periods (in women)
Strange food preferences
Obvious exhaustion and weakness

The physical effects of starvation don’t stop at weight loss. Self-starvation lowers a person’s heart rate and body temperature, thus an anorexic may complain of being cold often. An anorexic may grow fine body hair in the face and back. On the other hand, loss of scalp hair is a possibility. An anorexic’s skin is likely to be very dry and paste-like. An anorexic is often very fatigued and may experience fainting spells. Swelling and puffiness of the fingers, ankles and face may become noticeable. Another effect is a lowering of metabolism, which actually slows the rate in which our bodies burn calories. A final, most serious effect of anorexia is death. According to the American Anorexia Bulimia Association, starvation can cause irregular heartbeat, which can lead to cardiac arrest. Many people who starve themselves do not comprehend that their eating behaviors can have tragic consequences.

Anorexia nervosa can be cured, assuming the person affected is willing to undergo treatment. An individual dealing with anorexia must be able to express their feelings to a non-judging, caring person whom is willing to find a way to help. A cure is easier to achieve if a person is treated during the earlier stages of the disease. This is because the person may be more accepting of help, and because less damage has been done to their body. An anorexic would most benefit from treatment by a trained professional, while family, friends, and support groups provide supplemental support. A person seeking treatment needs to contact a number of people who will work together toward recovery. These include health care professionals such as physicians, psychologists, dieticians, and support groups.

The goals involved in the path to a cure include:
The restoration and ability to maintain a normal body weight
Overcoming negative body images and low self-esteem
Strengthening coping skills
Uncovering and dealing with any experiences of trauma and/or abuse
An effected person also needs the help of supportive family and friends. Also of importance during recovery is helping the anorexic find a healthful eating plan that they feel they can faithfully follow. A dietician would be helpful in designing such a program.

Anorexia nervosa is a frightening disease and may cause feelings of shame for those who are affected. A supportive environment with people willing to help without judging will be welcoming to a person who is dealing with the disorder. An anorexic must acknowledge that they are suffering and that the results of their starvation can be fatal. There are avenues for finding help, and many people who can provide a safe haven for treatment. Recovery may not be easy, but once it is achieved a peaceful, healthy life will follow.

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