Anorexia Nervosa

Attention

This post is NOT meant for self-diagnosis nor is it an exhaustive list, this is just to give you an idea about the condition. If you find yourself experiencing any of the symptoms or signs, please refer yourself to a physician for a complete diagnosis that involves comprehensive tests and lab reports. Thank you. 

What is it? 

Anorexia Nervosa is an eating disorder that is often defined by the abnormal loss of body weight or the inability to maintain a healthy one, in fear of gaining weight that forces a person to place restrictions on eating and exercise excessively. Though aversion to weight is common, in the case of anorexia the fear becomes an obsession. It is a serious condition that when left untreated may cause serious health issues, and in a few cases, even death. 

Causes  

Till date, no research pinpoints a single reason to be the cause, but a group of factors that may facilitate the development of the condition. This includes, 

• Biological Factors: It is found that certain genetic and hormone changes result in this condition. This was also noted to be hereditary. Eg. Serotonin imbalance. 
• Psychological factors: Conditions like depression, OCD, anxiety, low self-esteem, abuse and dysfunctional families are some to name. 
• Social Factors: The outlook of people and the ideal norms set unrealistically causes a bad impression on one’s appearance. This causes them to strive towards the stereotypical ideal look at the cost of self-harm.  

Diagnosis 

Some of the signs of having the disorder include the inability to maintain a healthy weight based on BMI, lack of sleep, disinterest in eating or eating restrictively, and dry skin with yellow or blotchy skin. The DSM-5 diagnostic criteria include 

• Restriction in taking a nutritive diet than the minimum required in hopes of reducing body weight that leads to impairment in normal development.
• Constant fear of becoming obese or feeling bad about body appearance in an obsessive manner that it interferes with weight gain. 
• Self-esteem affected by body weight or shape, apathetic for having a serious low body weight. 

All these conditions are meant to be observed for at least a considerable time persistently. If so, please get medical help immediately. 

Complications 

 Loss of essential nutrients due to restricted eating may lead to organ damage and electrolyte imbalances. Medical complications of the condition include heart, liver and kidney failure. Anaemia, low blood sugar and osteoporosis is also seen. 

Treatment

Anorexia is not a condition to panic or feel ashamed about. It is easily treatable with the help of a professional. This is seen throughout the world, especially in developed countries. The primary goal of therapeutic intervention is to restore a person to their normal weight and to address the underlying psychological issues that contributed to the condition. Treatments like Family-based therapy where the parents take over the monitoring of the eating habits of the child, or Cognitive Based Therapy have shown good results when diagnosed and treated early. 

Self Help Tips

The road to recovery does not only come from taking therapy, but also in practising the advice given during the sessions. Some of these tips may help you get on the road to recovery soon.

• Stick to a routine with a fixed meal chart. Ask a friend or a family member to keep you accountable. 
• Eat food on time and try not to skip meals. Eat with a friend or a family member who may encourage you to finish the diet.
• Do not follow any diet or plans from the internet or be picky about certain food.  
• Keep motivating yourself with positive affirmations that help in increasing your self-esteem. 
• Do regular exercise that fits your needs and profile only. 

References: 

1. 1. American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition. 5th ed. Washington, DC: APA Press; 2013.
2. 2. https://www.healthline.com/health/anorexia-nervosa#symptoms
3. 3. https://www.verywellmind.com/diagnostic-criteria-for-anorexia-nervosa-1138312
4. 4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK519712/table/ch3.t15/

Writer: Manojj Dhinakaran