Anorexia Nervosa
Alternate Names : Anorexia
What are the signs and symptoms of the disease?
Individuals with anorexia often have the following characteristics:
behavior that isolates them from others
excessive dependency needs
flat affect, or a face that doesn't display normal emotions
immaturity
obsessive-compulsive behavior
tendency toward an excess of exercise or other physical activity
The malnutrition caused by anorexia can affect many body systems. Some common symptoms of anorexia nervosa include:
amenorrhea, or absence of menstruation
arrhythmias, or irregular heartbeats
constipation
delayed puberty
difficulty concentrating, apathy, or irritability
fatigue
slow pulse and low blood pressure that can cause fainting
If people repeatedly make themselves vomit to keep their weight down, they may develop:
erosion of the tooth enamel, leading to cavities
esophagitis, or inflammation of the esophagus which can cause heartburn
An individual with anorexia may also show symptoms of depression or drug abuse.
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