ANOREXIA NERVOSA

It is a nervous eating disorder characterized by food restriction, odd eating habits or rituals, obsession with having a thin figure, and an irrational fear of weight gain. It is accompanied by a distorted body self-perception, and typically involves excessive weight loss. Due to their fear of gaining weight, individuals with this disorder restrict the amount of food they consume. Anorexia is simply a medical term for lack of appetite. It is often coupled with a distorted self image which may be maintained by various cognitive biases that alter how individuals evaluate and think about their body, food, and eating. People with anorexia nervosa often view themselves as overweight or not thin enough even when they are underweight. Anorexia nervosa is common among teenage girls.

SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF ANOREXIA NERVOSA

•    Lonugo: soft, fine and thin hair growing on the face and body

•       Obsession with foods with high calorie and fat

•        Obvious, rapid, dramatic weight loss to at least 15% under normal body weight

•         Dry hair and skin as well as hair thinning

•         Rapid mood swing

•         Chronic fatigue

•         Depression

•        Solitude (may avoid friends and family)

There is no conclusive evidence that any particular treatment for anorexia nervosa works better than others; however, there is enough evidence to suggest that early intervention and treatment are more effective. Treatment for anorexia nervosa tries to address three main areas.

• Restoring the person to a healthy weight;

• Treating the psychological disorders related to the illness;

• Reducing or eliminating behaviors or thoughts that originally led to the disordered eating.

Diet is the most essential factor to work on in patients with anorexia nervosa, and must be tailored to each patient's needs. Food variety is important when establishing meal plans as well as foods that are higher in energy density. Patients must consume adequate calories, starting slowly, and increasing at a measured pace.