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Anorexia

Anorexia Nervosa is a disease condition that can put a serious strain on many of the body's organs and Physiological resources; Anorexia puts a particular strain on the structure and function of the heart and cardiovascular system, with slow heart rate and elongation of the QT interval seen early on. People with anorexia typically have a disturbed electrolyte balance, particularly low levels of phosphate, which has been linked to heart failure, muscle weakness, immune dysfunction, and ultimately death. Those who develop anorexia before adulthood may suffer stunted growth and subsequent low levels of essential hormones (including sex hormones) and chronically increased cortisol levels. Osteoporosis can also develop as a result of anorexia in 38-50% of cases, as poor nutrition leads to the retarded growth of essential bone structure and low bone mineral density. Anorexia does not harm everyone in the same way. For example, evidence suggests that the results of the disease in adolescents may differ from those in adults .Although biological tests can aid the diagnosis of anorexia, the diagnosis is based on a combination of behavior, reported beliefs and experiences, and physical characteristics of the patient. Anorexia is typically diagnosed by a clinical psychologist, psychiatrist or other suitably qualified clinician.To be diagnosed as having anorexia nervosa a person must display:

  1. Psychological
    • Distorted body image
    • Poor insight
    • Self-evaluation largely, or even exclusively, in terms of their shape and weight
    • Pre-occupation or obsessive thoughts about food and weight
    • Perfectionism
    • OCD (obsessive compulsive disorder)
    • Belief that control over food is synonymous with being in control of one's life
    Emotional
    • Low self-esteem and self-efficacy
    • Clinical depression or chronically low mood
    • Intense fear about becoming overweight
    • Moodiness or 'mood swings'
    Interpersonal and social
    • Withdrawal from previous friendships and other peer-relationships
    • Deterioration in relationships with the family
    Physical
    • Extreme weight loss
    • Stunted growth
    • Endocrine disorder, leading to cessation of periods in girls
    • Decreased libido; impotence in males
    • Starvation symptoms, such as reduced metabolism, slow heart rate , hypo tension, hypothermia and anemia
    • Growth of lanugo hair over the body
    • Abnormalities of mineral and electrolyte levels in the body
    • Zinc deficiency
    • Often a reduction in white blood cell count
    • Reduced immune system function
    • Body mass index less than 17.5 in adults, or 85% of expected weight in children
    • Possibly with pallid complexion and sunken eyes
    • Creaking joints and bones
    • Tooth decay
    • Collection of fluid in ankles during the day and around eyes during the night
    • Constipation
    • Very dry/chapped lips due to malnutrition
    • Poor circulation, resulting in common attacks of 'pins and needles' and purple extremities
    • In cases of extreme weight loss, there can be nerve deterioration, leading to difficulty in moving the feet
    • Headaches, due to malnutrition
    • Thinning of the hair
    • Nails become more brittle
    • Constantly feeling "cold"
    • Bruise easily
    • Dry skin
    Behavioral
    • Excessive exercise, food restriction
    • Fainting
    • Secretive about eating or exercise behavior
    • Possible self-harm, substance abuse or suicide attempts
    • Very sensitive to references about body weight
    • Become very aggressive when forced to eat "forbidden" foods