Anorexia nervosa: a dangerous, menacing eating disorder that threatens physical and mental health

Anorexia is an eating disorder primarily among adolescents who have a distorted perception of weight.

New Delhi: Today’s world of social media, where everyone looks good and has a great body to show for it, has a high price paid by young people. The definition of beauty among young people is a lopsided mix of good looks with perfect features and a great body that shouldn’t have an extra ounce of fat anywhere.

And that is a looming danger, where the majority of young people are victims of diseases such as anorexy and bulimia.
anorexia nervosasimply called anorexia, is a eating disorder where people go to great lengths to control their diets through vomiting, fad diets, diuretics, laxatives or anything that can make them look ‘thin’. No matter how skinny they get, there is always a constant fear of gaining weight.

It is very difficult to overcome Anorexia but with treatment and therapies, it is possible to return to a healthy diet and reverse some of the serious implications that the disorder brings. If not identified early enough, anorexia can cause serious long-term physical and mental health complications.

signs of anorexia

The disorder can be identified by the following signs and symptoms:

  1. Extreme weightloss
  2. Anemia
  3. Insomnia
  4. Fatigue and dizziness
  5. irritable mood
  6. Discolored and patchy skin
  7. Fragilelifeless hair
  8. Low blood pressure
  9. Constipation
  10. stress and anxiety
  11. Panic attacks
  12. social retreat
  13. Irregular and scarce periods.
  small steps to big weight loss

Although there is no single cause of this disorder that can be identified, anorexia is a combination of several factors, such as peer pressure, influences from various cultures, the drive for perfectionism, and a sensitive nature.

Treatment of anorexia:

Once the diagnosis is made, anorexia is somewhat difficult to treat, however, with patience, therapy, and some medications, some of the symptoms can be treated. Many times, those with the disorder refuse medical treatment unless the condition becomes life-threatening. Many cognitive behavioral therapies that are done to reduce symptoms include:

  1. Eliminate ideas of strict diets or binge eating
  2. Address body positivity issues
  3. Treat problems such as low self-esteem
  4. nutritional advice

Disclaimer: The tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice. Always consult your doctor or dietitian before beginning any fitness program or making changes to your diet.

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