Anorexia Nervosa: Understanding Weight and Body Image
Anorexia Nervosa (AN)
Anorexia nervosa is a serious eating disorder characterized by:
- Intense fear of gaining weight
- Distorted body image (seeing oneself as overweight despite being underweight)
- Restricted eating leading to significantly low body weight
Atypical Anorexia Nervosa
Some individuals meet all psychological criteria for AN but are not underweight (BMI ≥ 18.5). This is classified as atypical anorexia nervosa (DSM-5). It carries similar medical and psychological risks.
Diagnostic Criteria (DSM-5) for Atypical AN
- Intense fear of gaining weight/fat
- Disturbed body experience
- Restricted intake leading to significant weight loss (but not underweight)
- Absence of amenorrhea (in post-pubertal females)
Atypical AN vs. Bulimia Nervosa
Atypical AN involves restriction without regular purging. Bulimia involves binge-eating followed by compensatory behaviors (vomiting, laxatives, excessive exercise).
Treatment
Multidisciplinary approach: medical monitoring, psychotherapy (CBT, family-based), nutritional rehabilitation. Goals: restore healthy weight, address psychological issues, prevent relapse.
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