ANOREXIA NERVOSA

General Information

DEFINITION--A psychological eating disorder in which a person refuses to eat adequately--in spite of hunger--and loses enough weight to become emaciated. The illness usually begins with a normal weight-loss diet. The person eats very little and refuses to stop dieting after a reasonable weight loss. The body perception is distorted; person sees self as "fat" when weight is normal or much less.

BODY PARTS INVOLVED--All body cells.

SEX OR AGE MOST AFFECTED--Female adolescents and young adults.

> Distorted body image. The person continues to feel fat--

even when emaciated.

• Cessation of menstrual periods.

CAUSES--Unknown. Possible causes include family and internal conflicts (sexual conflicts); phobia about putting on weight; changes in fashion in USA (slimness is identified with beauty); a symptom of depression or personality disorder.

RISK INCREASES WITH

• Peer pressure to be thin.
• History of slight overweight.
• Perfectionistic, compulsive or overachieving personalities.
• Psychological stress.
• Athletes, ballet dancers, cheerleaders.

HOW TO PREVENT--Confront personal problems realistically. Try to correct or cope with problems with the help of counselors, therapists, family and friends. Develop a realistic attitude about weight.

What To Expect

DIAGNOSTIC MEASURES--

• Your own observation of symptoms.
• Medical history and physical exam by a doctor.
• Laboratory blood tests for anemia and electrolyte imbalance.

APPROPRIATE HEALTH CARE

• Doctor's treatment.
• Psychotherapy or counseling for the patient and family.
• Treatment can usually be done on an outpatient basis.
• Hospitalization during crises for intravenous or tube feeding.
• Psychiatric hospitalization for at least 2 to 3 weeks (sometimes).

POSSIBLE COMPLICATIONS

• Chronic anorexia nervosa caused by patient's resistance to treatment.
• Electrolyte disturbances or irregular heartbeat. These may be life-threatening.
• Osteoporosis.
• Suicide.

PROBABLE OUTCOME--Treatable if the patient recognizes the emotional disturbance, wants help and cooperates in treatment. Without treatment, this can cause permanent disability or even death. Persons with anorexia nervosa have a high rate of attempted suicide due to low self-esteem. Therapy may continue over several years. Relapses are common, especially when stressful situations occur.

How To Treat

GENERAL MEASURES--

• The goal of treatment is for the patient to establish healthy eating patterns to regain normal weight. The patient can accomplish this with behavior-modification training supervised by a qualified professional.
• See Resources for Additional Information.

MEDICATION--Lithium or other antidepressants may be prescribed by your doctor.

ACTIVITY--No restrictions, but avoid overexertion.

DIET--A controlled refeeding program will be established. Vitamin and mineral supplements may be prescribed.

Call Your Doctor If

• Life-threatening symptoms occur, including: rapid, irregular heartbeat; chest pain; or loss of consciousness. Call immediately. This is an emergency!
• You have symptoms of anorexia nervosa or observe them in a family member.
• Weight loss continues, despite treatment.