Anorexia Nervosa

Even though anorexia centers around food, the disease is not only about food. Anorexia is a very unhealthy method used to attempt to cope with emotional problems, perfectionism and an ultimate power of control. Those suffering from anorexia are obsessed with food and how it impacts their weight and body shape. Anorexics equate their self worth with how thin they are. They try to maintain weight that is far below normal for their age and height through starvation or excessive exercise. It is common for someone with anorexia to be very thin, yet view oneself as fat and overweight.

Physical Anorexia Symptoms

• Extreme weight loss
• Thin appearance
• Dry skin
• Dehydration
• Low blood pressure
• Abnormal blood counts
• Fatigue
• Dizziness or fainting
• Brittle nails
• Hair that things, breaks or falls out
• Soft, downy hair covering the body
• Absence of menstruation
• Constipation
• Intolerance of cold
• Irregular heart rhythms
• Osteoporosis

Emotional and Behavioral Anorexia Symptoms

• Refusal to eat
• Eats in private
• Denial of hunger
• Excessive exercise
• Melancholy mood, or lack of emotion
• Difficulty concentrating
• Preoccupied with food

If you experience any of the anorexia symptoms listed above, seek medical help as soon as possible.  Anorexia usually does not get better on its own, and it can even get worse if left untreated and can eventually take over your life.

Please contact Dr. Rodriguez in the Health Clinic, or a counselor in the Counseling Center, to discuss your anorexia symptoms and feelings.  If you feel reluctant to seek treatment, try to work up the courage to confide in someone about what you are going through, whether it is a friend or loved one, a health care professional, a teacher, a spiritual leader, or someone else you trust.  They can help you take the first steps to successful anorexia treatment.