This situation, which is often misunderstood in society, is not only related to eating habits, but also to those of the individual with his psychology and self-perception is also deeply related. It is also possible to treat this disease, which should be discussed in detail both with its causes and with its symptoms.
If anorexia eating disorder If you suffer from this condition or if there are people around you who suffer from this condition, it will be helpful to learn more about anorexia.
What is anorexia?

Anorexia, scientific name “anorexia nervosa”; It is an eating disorder that causes the individual to experience extreme weight loss, the need to control their body weight, and an intense fear of becoming thin.
This condition can cause not only physical health problems, but also serious psychological problems. Anorexia nervosa and others eating disorders The main difference between the two is that anorexia affects not only eating habits but also the individual’s self-esteem and body image.
Who gets anorexia?

The incidence of anorexiaWhen we look at it, we usually see women, but this does not alter the fact that it also occurs in men. Time of onset of anorexia often in late adolescence or early adulthood. The reason why it is more common during this period is the body changes that occur during adolescence. Moreover, increased peer pressure can also cause young people to suffer from this disorder.
What is the difference between anorexia and bulimia?
Although they are both eating disorders, there are some differences between the two disorders. Intense fear of gaining weight is a common symptom, but anorexia disorder Individuals have different behaviors towards food.
They severely reduce calorie intake and consume fluids to lose weight. bulimia disease People with this condition overeat and then engage in behaviors such as vomiting, fasting, and using laxatives to prevent weight gain.
Another difference between them occurs in the body mass index. bulimia patientskeeping their weight at or slightly above optimal levels. Anorexia patients generally have a body mass index of less than 18.45, which means they fall into the underweight category.
The symptoms of anorexia are divided into physical and emotional.
Physical symptoms of anorexia:
- extreme weight loss
- slim appearance
- burnout
- abnormal blood count
- Thinning and falling hair
- Insomnia
- Dizziness and fainting
- Shortness of breath
- Bluish discoloration of the fingers
- Dry and yellowish skin
- Constipation, bloating and abdominal pain
- intolerance to cold
- low bloodpressure
- irregular heart rhythm
- Swelling of arms and legs
- Not enough fluid (dehydration)
- Calluses on joints caused by vomiting
- Irregular menstruation
- Muscle weakness and loss of muscle mass
- wound does not heal
- Getting sick often
Emotional and behavioral symptoms of anorexia:
- Severe restriction of food intake, such as fasting or dieting
- excessive exercise
- Chewing and spitting out food
- Refusal to eat solid food
- Getting rid of food using medications such as enemas and laxatives
- Overeating and self-induced vomiting
- Carefully prepare food for others, but do not concern yourself with inedible food
- Often refusing to eat or skipping meals
- Making excuses for not eating
- Lying about how much food is eaten
- Consuming a few foods that are low in fat and calories
- I don’t want to eat in front of other people
- complaining about being fat
- lack of emotion
- social shyness
- Irritability
- Wearing loose clothing or layers to hide weight loss
What are the causes of anorexia?
Causes of anorexia It is complex and is often seen as a combination of genetic predisposition, environmental factors and individual psychological problems. social pressure and the media can contribute to this situation by creating unrealistic expectations about idealized body images, especially among young people.
biological causes
Although it is not known which gene is effective for this disease, some people do have it Your chances of developing anorexiaIt can be caused by biological reasons. Those with a genetic tendency toward perfectionism and sensitivity may suffer from anorexia. Some research suggests that 50 to 80 percent of eating disorders are caused by a biological cause.
psychological reasons
Some mental disorders, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder, can cause situations such as going on a strict diet and stopping eating. perfectionism This is where it comes in and they think they are not skinny enough.
ecological reasons
Especially in modern Western culture, the emphasis is on weakness. Success and value are also often accompanied by weakness. Moreover peer pressure For example, environmental factors are one of the factors that increase the risk of young people suffering from anorexia.
Traumatic causes
Dealing with painful emotions have overwhelming feelings These are behaviors that occur after situations such as physical abuse and assault. Also these Factors that cause anorexia between.
What are the complications of anorexia?

- Anemia
- muscle loss
- Increased risk of fractures due to bone loss
- Heart problems such as abnormal heart rhythm and heart failure
- Decreased testosterone in men
- kidney problems
- liver problems
- fertility problems
- Some brain and nerve related problems, such as concentration and memory problems, rare seizures
- weak immune system
- mood disorders
- Alcohol and substance use
- personality disorders
- Thoughts of self-harm and suicide
- Dead
Treatment methods for anorexia
Anorexia treatment It varies from individual to individual and often requires a multifaceted approach. Medical treatment may include nutritional advice and medication. Psychotherapy, especially cognitive behavioral therapy and family therapy, also play an important role.
Long-term recovery involves the individual developing a healthy perspective on themselves and their eating habits, and support groups can provide great assistance in this regard. In addition, a balanced diet regaining a normal eating pattern You may also need to seek nutritional advice.
If anorexia is at an advanced level and heart disease suicidal thoughts If these types of complications occur, hospitalization may be necessary.
Anorexia can be a challenge not only for the individual, but also for their family and friends. However, with early intervention and effective treatment methods, anorexia is a condition that can be overcome. If you or someone you know is affected by this situation, it is helpful to get expert support before it is too late.
Sources: Mayo Clinic, NHS, Cleveland Clinic, Health Direct, National Eating Disorders Collaboration, NIH, National Library of Medicine
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