Understanding Anorexia: Beyond the Media’s Perception of the Disorder

Anorexia nervosa, more commonly known as simply anorexia, is an eating disorder characterized primarily by starvation. Approximately 0.5% of Americans suffer from anorexia, of which, 85-95% are female. It goes without saying that eating disorders are primarily thought of as a female problem, however, men account for 10-15% of Americans who suffer from either anorexia or bulimia.

How is anorexia characterized?
Anorexia, although it presents symptoms that are physical in nature, is more likely the result of a more deeply rooted psychological problem. Anorexia is characterized by a low body mass index (BMI)of below 18.5, malnutrition, low self-esteem, calorie restriction, ammenorhea, excessive exercising and the abuse of laxatives and diet pills. Contrary to popular belief, anorexics may or may not induce vomiting or purge.

What causes anorexia?
It is not for certain what causes the development of anorexia, however, there are many factors which may influence the development of anorexia. Some believe that anorexia may be related to an individual’s genetics and that those who are directly related to others who have suffered from eating disorders are more likely to develop eating disorders themselves. In fact, genetic researchers have discovered a portion of chromosome 1 which may be linked to an increased susceptibility to anorexia.

Those who suffer from anorexia often have other psychological issues and concerns. Individuals who suffer from perfectionist or obsessive-compulsive attitudes and behaviors are more likely to suffer from anorexia. Additionally, many who suffer from eating disorders resort to these disorders as a method of coping with much more severe psychological issues and trauma, such as abuse and sexual assault.

Eating disorders may also be influenced by socciety and the media. Some argue that young women and men seeing images of photoshopped, perfected models plastered on billboards, televisions and magazines creates a false sense of what beauty truly is beginning at a young age. Although these societal factors could influence the development and continuation of an eating disorder, it is unlikely that these factors are the sole reasons behind the development of the disorder.

What are the symptoms of anorexia?

There are many different symptoms that could indicate the presence of anorexia in an individual. Symptoms including an especially low weight, laxative and diuretic abuse, lack of appetite, diet pill use, over-exercising, weight food, counting calories, eating little amounts, preoccupation with weight and body image, and inaccurate beliefs of fatness could all indicate the presence of an eating disorder.

What are the dangers of anorexia?
The dangers associated with anorexia are countless and include sever cardiac problems which could lead to heart attack or heart failure, gastrointestinal disorders, anemia, easy bruising, decreased fertility in men and women, compromised immune system, dental problems, dizziness and loss of consciousness, dry skin, brittle hair and nails, hypoglycemia, ketosis, lanugo, liver damage, low blood pressure, muscle cramps, weakness and atrophy, low body temperature, sensitivity, yellow skin and death.

How is anorexia treated?
Someone who suffers from anorexia may require medical attention depending on the severity and complications associated with the disorder. In some cases, patients require to be fed using a NG-tube or G-tube while undergoing other stabilizing treatments. Those suffering from eating disorders benefit from good nutritional counseling, as well as counseling, therapy and medication for any underlying psychological issues. Treatments vary depending on each unique situation but some treatments are carried out on an outpatient basis, while others are performed on an inpatient basis.

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