By We Level Up | Author Giselle Leung, PharmD, BCGP | Editorial Policy | Research Policy

Anorexia nervosa is a serious eating disorder characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight, leading to severe restriction of food intake and unhealthy weight loss. People with anorexia often have a distorted body image, seeing themselves as overweight even when they’re dangerously thin. 

While this disorder most commonly affects adolescent girls and young women, it can affect people of all ages, genders, and backgrounds. Anorexia has the highest mortality rate of any mental illness, due to severe complications that can affect all major organ systems of the body. Recovery is possible. It involves a multidisciplinary approach from medical care to nutritional counseling. Seek help early to prevent the disorder from worsening and to regain health and well-being.

In this post, we’ll talk about what anorexia nervosa is, its most common symptoms, and how it is treated. 

Key Takeaways

• Anorexia nervosa is characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight, leading to severe food restriction and unhealthy weight loss.
• Common symptoms include significant weight loss, distorted body image, excessive exercise, and denial of the seriousness of the condition.
• Long-term effects of anorexia can persist even after recovery, including osteoporosis, heart issues, and psychological challenges.
• Diagnosis involves a comprehensive medical and psychological evaluation by healthcare professionals.
• Treatment from psychotherapy to nutritional rehabilitation is tailored to each individual’s needs.
• Seeking professional help early is critical for preventing long-term health risks and complications associated with anorexia.

Definition and Overview of Anorexia Nervosa

Anorexia nervosa is a complex eating disorder that is characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight.

People with anorexia often experience other mental health conditions, including depression, anxiety, and low self-esteem. This can lead to social isolation and relationship problems.

Recovery from anorexia is possible with a combination of psychotherapy, nutritional counseling, and medical monitoring.

If you or someone you know is struggling with anorexia, seek help from a healthcare professional. Early intervention improves the chances of successful recovery.

Common Symptoms of Anorexia Nervosa

Anorexia nervosa is a complex eating disorder consisting of various physical, emotional, and behavioral symptoms. Being aware of these signs is critical for early intervention and treatment.

Physical symptoms

You may notice significant weight loss or a persistently low body weight in people with anorexia. They might experience frequent complaints of feeling cold due to a lack of body fat. Dizziness, fainting, and fatigue are common as the body becomes malnourished. Physical signs include dry, yellowish skin, brittle nails, and thinning hair. In severe cases, anorexia can lead to irregular heartbeats, low blood pressure, and organ damage. Women may experience irregular menstrual cycles or amenorrhea (absence of menstruation) due to hormonal imbalances caused by malnutrition.

Emotional and behavioral signs

Besides having an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image, people with anorexia may constantly talk about food, dieting, and their weight. You might notice them engaging in ritualistic eating behaviors, such as cutting food into tiny pieces or rearranging it on their plate. They may also cook elaborate meals for others but refuse to eat. As the disorder progresses, they may become moody, irritable, and withdraw from social relationships. They may exercise intensely, even when injured or ill, to burn calories. Denial of the seriousness of their condition is another major behavioral symptom.

Long-term effects of anorexia after recovery

Recovering from anorexia is a significant achievement, but the journey doesn’t end there. The long-term effects can persist even after recovery.

Diagnosis of Anorexia Nervosa

Diagnosing anorexia nervosa requires a comprehensive evaluation by healthcare professionals to determine the appropriate treatment plan.

The psychological evaluation involves discussing your thoughts, feelings, and behaviors related to eating and body image. Your mental health provider will ask about your symptoms, daily habits, and any challenges you face as well as screen for other mental health conditions that often co-occur with anorexia.

Based on these assessments, your healthcare team will determine if you meet the diagnostic criteria for anorexia nervosa. They’ll then work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that addresses your unique needs and goals.

Treatment Options for Anorexia Nervosa

Anorexia nervosa treatment is tailored to each person’s needs and should cover all aspects of the disorder.

Psychotherapy approaches

Psychotherapy is a key part of anorexia treatment. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) helps you identify and change negative thoughts and behaviors related to food and body image. It also teaches you to explore underlying issues that may contribute to your eating disorder. Family-based therapy involves your loved ones in the recovery process. They will learn how to support and help you maintain healthy eating habits.

Medication

While there’s no specific medication for anorexia, medications may help manage symptoms. Antidepressants, such as SSRIs, can treat depression and anxiety that often accompany anorexia. Olanzapine, an antipsychotic, may help with weight gain and reduce obsessive thoughts about food and body weight. 

Your healthcare provider will determine if medication is right for you based on your individual needs.

Nutritional rehabilitation

Nutritional rehabilitation is critical for restoring your health. A dietitian will create a meal plan to help you gradually increase your food intake and reach a healthy weight. They’ll also teach you about balanced nutrition and normal eating habits. Hospitalization may be necessary in severe cases to ensure proper nourishment and medical monitoring. Nutritional supplements may be recommended to address deficiencies caused by malnutrition.

Atypical anorexia nervosa

Atypical anorexia nervosa shares many similarities with traditional anorexia nervosa, but some key differences set it apart.

What is Atypical Anorexia Nervosa

Atypical anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder where people experience the same intense fear of gaining weight and distorted body image as those with traditional anorexia. They also engage in restrictive eating behaviors to reduce. The main difference is that people with atypical anorexia are not underweight.

Despite being at normal weight or even overweight, they still struggle with the same psychological and emotional symptoms of anorexia. This makes it harder to recognize and diagnose the disorder. 

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of atypical anorexia, it’s critical to seek a healthcare provider to provide an accurate diagnosis and develop a personalized treatment plan.

Long-term Health Risks and Complications

Anorexia nervosa can have serious, long-term effects on your physical and mental health. If left untreated, they may become life-threatening.

Anorexia affects your mental well-being. You may struggle with

• Depression, anxiety, and mood swings
• Difficulty concentrating and memory issues
• Social isolation and relationship problems
• Substance abuse and addiction
• Obsessive-compulsive behaviors

Seek professional treatment early to decrease the risk of potentially irreversible damage and long-term health consequences.

Prevention Strategies for Anorexia Nervosa

Follow these strategies to reduce the risk of developing anorexia:

• Promote a healthy body image and self-esteem from a young age. Encourage children to appreciate their unique qualities and strengths.
• Educate yourself and others about anorexia. Being aware of the early warning signs can lead to timely intervention.
• Foster open communication within families and communities about eating disorders.
• Create a supportive environment where people feel comfortable discussing their concerns.
• Encourage media literacy and critical thinking skills when consuming content that often promotes unrealistic beauty standards.
• Advocate for policies that support mental health awareness and access to treatment, especially those that aim to prevent eating disorders and promote overall well-being.
• Model healthy eating habits and a balanced approach to food. Avoid labeling foods as “good” or “bad,” and emphasize moderation.
• Promote a positive body image by encouraging physical activities that people enjoy rather than exercising solely for weight loss.

Resources for Living with Anorexia Nervosa

Managing daily life with anorexia nervosa can be challenging. There are various resources and support groups available to help you cope.

Useful Tips and Support Groups for Managing Daily Life with the Disorder

Here are some helpful tips for managing anorexia in your daily life:

1. Stick to your treatment plan: Follow the guidelines set by your healthcare team. Attend your regular therapy sessions, meal plans, and medical check-ups.
2. Practice self-care: Engage in activities that promote relaxation and reduce stress. Try yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.
3. Surround yourself with support: Reach out to trusted friends and family members. Let them know how they can best support your recovery.
4. Challenge negative thoughts: When faced with negative body image or disordered eating thoughts, try to reframe them positively. Focus on your strengths and achievements.
5. Develop healthy coping strategies: Find alternative ways to deal with emotions without relying on disordered eating behaviors. Try journaling, art, or talking to a friend.

Support groups provide safe spaces to connect with others who understand your struggles. Here are some options:

• National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA) Support Groups: NEDA offers online and in-person support groups led by trained volunteers.
• Eating Disorders Anonymous (EDA): EDA is a 12-step program that holds meetings worldwide and online.
• Project HEAL: This organization provides peer support services, including mentorship programs and virtual support groups.

Remember, you’re not alone in this journey. Utilizing these resources and leaning on your support system can make a significant difference in managing anorexia in your daily life.

Frequently Asked Questions