Symptoms of anorexia may include fear of weight gain, a refusal to eat, and an obsessive need to control body weight. Anorexia nervosa is a serious mental illness that can be life threatening. If left untreated, it can lead to malnutrition, depression, and other health complications.
Anorexia can affect people of any age, although it is more common in young girls. Teenagers may be more prone to this disease because of puberty and peer pressure. Popular culture often links thinness with beauty and success. In addition, changes in certain genes can increase the risk of developing anorexia.
Anorexia treatment programs should be started as soon as possible. Recovery from this condition will take time. There are many treatments available. Anorexia treatment can take place in a hospital or in an outpatient facility. The treatment plan should include other support needs, such as family or emotional support. A person with anorexia may need hospitalization, especially if they experience severe weight loss or cardiovascular complications. It is also important to find a physician who can identify early warning signs. A primary care physician may be able to diagnose anorexia based on the patient’s symptoms and behavior.
Family-based refeeding (FBR) involves the family taking responsibility for nutritional intake. During the treatment process, family members learn about the illness and receive instruction on how to provide support. Family members may also be involved in group therapy sessions to help the individual recover.
A person with anorexia may also be at risk for other mental illnesses, such as depression and bipolar disorder. The patient’s brain may be unable to function properly in the latter stages of anorexia. In addition, the patient may have increased risk of heart failure, heart attack, and death. Symptoms of anorexia nervosa include painless enlargement of the salivary glands, low blood pressure, low blood glucose levels, constipation, hypothermia, and bradycardia.
Anorexia nervosa can have a very negative impact on a person’s career. A person with this illness may engage in extreme exercise routines to control weight. Anorexics may also avoid meals to help reduce their anxiety. Some anorexics also have obsessive-compulsive personality traits. These traits can make anorexia treatment even more difficult.
Anorexia treatment may also include medication. For severe cases of anorexia, a person may need to stay in the hospital for several weeks. Inpatient residential centers are also an option. These programs allow a person to stay in a hospital during the day and return home at night.
Anorexia treatment programs may also include group therapy sessions. These sessions offer a place where individuals with similar conditions can support one another. The group can discuss and share experiences and help one another learn how to make positive changes in their lives. During these sessions, participants are expected to learn new skills and learn to recognize triggers.
The first step in anorexia treatment is to reach out to family and friends. You should also try to educate yourself about the illness. Anorexia is a serious condition that needs to be treated right away. This may include seeking medical help and working with a psychiatrist, psychologist, or dietitian.