By: Trevor Price
The first step in treating anorexia is to identify its symptoms with the patient. By recognizing their own indicators, a patient is one step closer to conquering the disease.
And though eating disorders are a rare mental health disorder (when compared to issues like depression), they have a high morbidity rate - meaning it's critical to identify the disease and treat it effectively.
To learn more about Anorexia nervosa, including the disease's symptoms, keep reading. The Basics of Anorexia Anorexia, or Anorexia nervosa, is a disease defined as a patient's refusal or (seemingly) inability to maintain a normal body weight. This is often coupled with intense anxiety and fear about gaining weight along with a false or distorted self image. People with anorexia often see themselves as fat, even if they are clearly emaciated and malnourished. Symptoms Associated with the Disease Typically, anorexia is diagnosed by the patient him or herself or by a loved one who recognizes the warning signs of the disease. Treatment is then sought by a psychiatric professional. Common warning indicators include sudden and extreme weight loss, fatigue, fainting, high stress levels and nausea. Once the disease progresses and the weight loss begins to take its toll, the symptoms become more dramatic and apparent. These include loss of hair, rotting or weak teeth, bad skin, dry skin, dry scalp and irregular menstrual cycles. Before the disease can be officially identified, tracked and then treated, a psychiatrist and doctor must obtain a full physical assessment of the patient - particularly their body mass index (BMI), which is calculated using their height and weight. The patient's BMI can then be tracked as a way of judging their progress throughout the course of treatment. Doctors should also assess the patient's blood - checking for a complete blood count and an evaluation of electrolytes, thyroid function and liver function. This can not only rule out other possible causes, but also potentially identify dangerous physical problems often associated with the disease. Difficulties Treating of Anorexia Nervosa Diagnosing Anorexia may appear simple, however actually treating the disease is very difficult. Often patients are either in denial about the progression or effects of the disease or they hide their symptoms. Another common tactic is to pretend to participate in treatment while secretly engaging in weight loss tactics like hidden exercising or purging. Patients are often unable to give in to greater levels of nutrition, but are also very aware of the dangers associated with their disease. They understand that they need to seek treatment, but the prospect of eating more is frightening. Coupled with this is the fact that the disease causes low energy levels and even depression - making the disease harder to fight. So, despite the fact that many anorexia symptoms can be quickly identified, the disease is very difficult to treat and cure. Early intervention is always recommended, along with the full support of a patient's family.
