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Anorexia Nervosa: Definition, Symptoms & Medical Consequences

Anorexia Nervosa: A Serious Eating Disorder

Correct spelling: Anorexia (not "annorexia"). Anorexia nervosa is a life-threatening psychiatric disorder characterized by:

Core Diagnostic Features (DSM-5)

  1. Restriction of energy intake → significantly low body weight
  2. Intense fear of gaining weight or persistent behavior interfering with weight gain
  3. Disturbance in body perception: Undue influence of weight/shape on self-evaluation; denial of seriousness

Subtypes

  • Restricting type: Weight loss via diet, fasting, exercise
  • Binge-eating/purging type: Recurrent binge/purge behaviors (vomiting, laxatives, diuretics)

Medical Complications (Systemic)

  • Cardiac: Bradycardia, hypotension, arrhythmias, QT prolongation, sudden death
  • Endocrine: Amenorrhea, osteoporosis, thyroid suppression, hypoglycemia
  • GI: Gastroparesis, constipation, hepatic steatosis, superior mesenteric artery syndrome
  • Hematologic: Anemia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia
  • Neurologic: Brain volume loss, cognitive impairment, seizures
  • Electrolyte: Hypokalemia, hyponatremia, hypophosphatemia (refeeding syndrome risk)

Treatment

  • Multidisciplinary: Medical stabilization, nutritional rehabilitation, psychotherapy (CBT-E, FBT for adolescents), psychiatric care
  • Levels of care: Outpatient → IOP → PHP → Residential → Inpatient (medical stabilization)
  • Recovery is possible with early, evidence-based intervention

If you or someone you know is struggling, contact NEDA (1-800-931-2237) or a qualified eating disorder specialist.

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