Anorexia – Anorexia nervosa

Description of anorexia

Anorexia – eating disorder. It arises, when a person's obsession with diet and exercise results in a lot of weight loss. Anorexia is diagnosed, if the patient refuses to maintain body weight at or above 85% from the recommended body weight. This disorder can be life and health threatening..

Causes of anorexia

The causes of anorexia are not known. Most likely genetics and environmental conditions play a major role in the onset of the disease..

Risk factors for anorexia

Factors, which increase the likelihood of anorexia:

• Paul: female;
• Age: adolescent or youth;
• Low self-esteem;
• Feelings of helplessness;
• Perfectionism;
• Fear of being overweight;
• The presence of conflicts in the family;
• Family history of eating disorders;
• Emotional stress;
• Emotional disorders, such as depression or anxiety disorder;
• Personality Disorders;
• Susceptibility to social and fashion trends, or idealization of harmony.

Symptoms of anorexia

Symptoms may include:

• Excessive weight loss;
• Obsession with food control, calories and fat content;
• Constant hard diets, even with normal weight;
• Bumless vomiting, after eating;
• Fear of gaining weight, even then, when the weight is already low;
• Dysmorphia and skewed assessment of excess weight;
• Loss of menstruation (secondary amenorrhea) or delayed menarche (first menstruation);
• Feeling cold, especially in the arms and legs;
• Anorexia;
• Hair loss and / or thin hair growth;
• Fainting or severe dizziness;
• Constipation;
• Depression and / or anxiety;
• Cardiopalmus;

Anorexia often leads to a number of serious medical problems, including:

• Amenorrhea (amenorrhea);
• Osteoporosis;
• Problems with heart (It can be life-threatening).

Diagnosis of anorexia

The doctor asks about the symptoms and medical history, and performs a physical exam. Psychological tests are also carried out. Laboratory tests may be ordered. Research results can reveal:

• Excessive fat loss;
• Loss of muscle mass;
• Low heart rate;
• Low pressure, especially when standing;
• Decreased bone density;
• Signs of a sluggish metabolism.

Treatment of anorexia

The goal of treatment is to return to and maintain a healthy weight.. Healthy weight is over 85% from ideal weight. To achieve this, calorie intake should gradually increase. This can be achieved through a number of measures, including the following::

Nutritional Recommendations

A dietitian can be consulted, to determine the components of a healthy diet. A dietitian can also schedule food intake and weight gain, to stick to.

Cognitive therapy povedencheskaya

A cognitive behavioral therapist assists in building a healthier and more realistic self-concept. Therapist helps to find new ways to perceive the body and diet.

Mezhlichnostnaya therapy

Therapy can help you understand and deal with relationship problems.

Family therapy

Families often play a role in the onset of eating disorders. Many patients are unable to regain their normal weight, if they do not feel support in the family. All family members should support the patient and be sensitive to his problems.

Antidepressants

In some cases of anorexia, taking antidepressants is beneficial, especially if combined with psychotherapy. In particular, selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors are used (such as sertraline [Zoloft] or fluoxetine [Prozac]) . Antidepressant therapy alone is not effective for treating anorexia.

Supplementation, prevent osteoporosis

Medications and supplements may include:

• Vitamins and minerals to maintain adequate levels;
• Hormone replacement therapy to resume menstruation and prevent bone loss.

Hospitalization

Hospitalization may be required, if:

• Spring 25% -30% below ideal body weight;
• There are signs of severe physical or emotional deterioration.

Prevention of anorexia

There are no guidelines for preventing anorexia. Early detection and treatment of this disorder is the best option..