Anorexia Nervosa
Anorexia Nervosa - Restricting type
Anorexia Nervosa or Anorexia is an eating disorder characterized by an abnormally low body weight, an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted perception of weight. People with anorexia place a high value on controlling their weight and shape, using extreme efforts that tend to significantly interfere with their lives.
To prevent weight gain or to continue losing weight, people with anorexia usually control calorie intake by unhealthy manners.
There are two types of patients with Anorexia Nervosa based on the behavior in which patients restrict their calories intake:
<b>1- The Restricting Type:</b> In which people severely restrict the amount of food they eat and\or performing and excessive intense exercise.
<b>2- The Binge-Eating/Purging Type:</b> In which patients eat excessive amount of food in a short time followed by <b>intentional</b> vomiting or by misusing laxatives, diet aids, diuretics or enemas.
No matter how much weight is lost, the person continues to fear weight gain.
Treatment may include psychotherapy, nutritional counseling, and medical monitoring to address both physical and mental health aspects. Early intervention is crucial for better outcomes in managing anorexia nervosa.
Restriction of energy intake relative to requirements
common
Intense fear of gaining weight or becoming fat
common
Significant intentional low body weight
common
or Decreased sexual desire
common
Thinning or loss of hair anywhere
or Dry skin at the private area
or Dry skin on legs or feet
or Dry skin on arms or hands
or Small depressions on the nails
common
Neurogenic or psychiatric conditions
The biggest challenge in treating anorexia is helping the person recognize and accept that they have an illness. Many people with anorexia deny that they have an eating disorder. They often seek medical treatment only when their condition is serious or life-threatening.
The goals of treatment for anorexia include:
<b>1-</b>Stabilizing weight loss.
<b>2-</b>Beginning nutrition rehabilitation to restore weight.
<b>3-</b>Eliminating binge eating and/or purging behaviors and other problematic eating patterns.
<b>4-</b>Treating psychological issues such as low self-esteem and distorted thinking patterns.
<b>5-</b>Developing long-term behavioral changes.
These goals are usually achieved through the following strategies:
<b>1-</b>Psychotherapy.
<b>2-</b>Medication.
<b>3-</b>Nutrition counseling.
<b>4-</b>Group and/or family therapy. or even
<b>5-</b>Hospitalization.
If you have Anorexia Nervosa, then a visit to a psychiatrist is recommended.