Symptoms Of Anorexia

The symptoms of anorexia have to be understood before any form of therapy or treatment is given. The following are the major signs and indicators.

Physical Indicators

The most apparent symptoms will of course be a very gaunt appearance. In many cases the arms and legs may swell up due to the irregular eating habits. Other ailments like osteoporosis and constipation can occur.

Dehydration is likely to happen because the person is exercising too much and not getting enough sustenance and nutrients in return for the energy expended.

Medical tests will show they have unusual blood counts and low blood pressure. The heart rhythm will also be irregular. The skin will dry up and hair fall off.

Menstruation may stop among women. Other signs of the eating disorder are bluish fingers and brittle nails. As the condition worsens, dizziness and fainting spells will be experienced. Insomnia is also reported in many cases.

Mental and Emotional Symptoms of Anorexia

People with the eating disorder will refuse to eat and never admit they are hungry. They will exercise continuously in an attempt to lose weight.

These individuals may feel depressed or suffer from extreme mood swings. They can become irritable or just seem emotionally flat. Very likely they will be taking diet pills. Their preoccupation with food will be apparent as well.

Other Warning Signs

Some of the symptoms mentioned above may be hard to see in some cases. This is because the person does not want people to know about it. Nevertheless there are other symptoms that may very well be indicative of the eating disorder.

These warning signs include skipping meals on a regular basis. They will also insist on eating only low calorie food, and even then in very small portions. Some people with the eating disorder may slice the food into bits and consume very little of it.

Many will attempt to hide their condition by serving large meals for others. They will not, however, partake in it, and offer all sorts of excuses. You may also notice they are always on the weighing scale.

Another sign is they will be making negative remarks about their physical appearance and how fat they look. They will often wear multiple layers of clothing to mask their thin appearance. They will become sensitive and irritable when questioned about their weight.

Seeking Treatment

Left untreated, this eating disorder could lead to serious health complications. The fainting spells will increase and all the problems that come with malnutrition will arise. As the physical body weakens, the immune system will deteriorate and make it more susceptible to diseases.

If someone you know is afflicted with this condition, encourage them to see a doctor immediately. If you are developing these symptoms, go to a doctor before the condition worsens.

Because this eating disorder can be very dangerous, familiarity with the signs and indicators is necessary. By knowing the symptoms of anorexia, therapy and the proper treatment can be administered. If treated, the condition can be cured and normal eating habits restored.