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Anorexia Nervosa

Condition Basics

What is anorexia?

Anorexia is a type of eating disorder. People who have it have an intense fear of gaining weight. They strictly limit the amount of food they eat and can become so thin that it becomes a danger to them.

Anorexia is both a physical and emotional problem. It almost always begins with a strict weight-loss diet. Over time, strictly limiting foods leads to malnutrition and unhealthy weight loss.

It usually starts in the teen years. And it's much more common in females than in males. The earlier the problem is treated, the better the chances are that someone with anorexia can recover. If not treated, it can lead to serious health problems and starvation.

What causes it?

Experts don't really know what causes anorexia. But it may be due to a mix of genetics, family behaviours, social factors, and personality traits. For example, you may be more likely to have anorexia if someone in your family has it or if you do a sport that stresses body size, like gymnastics.

What are the symptoms?

People who have anorexia weigh much less than is healthy or normal. They think they are overweight even when they are very thin. Their lives become focused on controlling their weight. They may obsess about food, weight, and dieting. And they may strictly limit how much they eat.

How is it diagnosed?

There is no single test that can diagnose anorexia. But anorexia has a visible effect on your health and eating habits. If anorexia is suspected, your doctor will compare your weight with the expected weight for someone of your height and age. He or she will also check for signs of malnutrition or starvation.

How is anorexia treated?

Because anorexia is a physical and emotional problem, you may work with a doctor, a dietitian, and a counsellor. Treatment can help you get back to a healthy weight, learn good eating habits, and learn to feel better about yourself. If your weight has dropped too low, you'll need treatment in a hospital.

What should you do if you think someone has an eating disorder?

If you think your child has an eating disorder:

  • Talk to them. Tell your child why you're worried. Let them know you care.
  • Make an appointment for you and your child to meet with a doctor or a counsellor.

If you're worried about someone you know:

  • Tell someone who can make a difference, like a parent, a teacher, a counsellor, or a doctor. A person with an eating disorder may say that they are okay and don't need help. You can help by encouraging them to talk to someone they trust.
Information about Anorexia Nervosa

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.

This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC, disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. Learn how we develop our content.

Information about Anorexia Nervosa

Current as of: July 31, 2024

Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff

Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.