Anorexia Nervosa

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ANOREXIA NERVOSA

Anorexia Nervosa is an eating disorder that causes people to intentionally starve themselves or severely restrict their food intake. Anorexia usually occurs at the time of puberty and involves extreme weight loss. People who have this disorder have a fear of becoming overweight even though they are 15% below the average weight. Many causes of anorexia show that they adhere to strict exercise routines to keep off weight, 90% of all anorexics are women.

The cause of anorexia is unknown, but people with this disorder believe that they will be happier and more excepted thin. These people tend to be perfectionist and have to have everything in their lives perfect. Many cases occur in good students that are involved in student activities and sports. Anorexics incorrectly believe that they need to lose weight to be happy. Body image distortions are common. Some cases of Anorexia occur from difficulties in relationships and unresolved conflicts or painful experiences from childhood.

Problems that are associated with anorexia are girls usually stop having their menstrual periods. This is a condition that is known as amenorrhea. Anorexia can lead to hair loss and dry skin. People who are suffering from anorexia feel cold and become easily ill. Mood swings are typical. One in ten anorexics die from starvation, suicide, or medical complications like heart attacks or kidney failure.

Anorexia is a mental problem manifested in a physical form. Treatment includes both mental health and professional as well as a primary health care physician. Also regular therapy, nutritional counseling, and possible medication can help treat this disorder. Support groups also play an extreme role into recovering from anorexia.

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