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Anorexia Nervosa: An Introduction For Health Professionals

Arthur C. Clarke

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Mental Health Issues and the Media: An Introduction for Health Professionals

by Gary Morris

4.6 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	891 KB
Text-to-Speech	:	Enabled
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
Print length	:	267 pages

What is Anorexia Nervosa?

Anorexia nervosa is a serious eating disorder that is characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight, a distorted body image, and severely restricted food intake. People with anorexia nervosa may also engage in excessive exercise, purging behaviors (such as vomiting or using laxatives),and/or use diet pills or other weight-loss supplements.

Anorexia nervosa is a life-threatening condition that can lead to a number of health problems, including:

* Malnutrition * Heart problems * Kidney problems * Bone loss * Electrolyte imbalances * Gastrointestinal problems * Menstrual irregularities * Infertility

Symptoms of Anorexia Nervosa

The symptoms of anorexia nervosa can vary depending on the severity of the disorder. However, some common symptoms include:

* Extreme weight loss * A distorted body image * Intense fear of gaining weight * Severely restricted food intake * Excessive exercise * Purging behaviors (such as vomiting or using laxatives) * Use of diet pills or other weight-loss supplements * Amenorrhea (loss of menstrual periods) * Fatigue * Weakness * Dizziness * Constipation * Dry skin * Brittle hair and nails * Cold intolerance

Causes of Anorexia Nervosa

The exact cause of anorexia nervosa is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of genetic, psychological, and environmental factors. Some risk factors for anorexia nervosa include:

* Having a family history of eating disorders * Being female * Being a perfectionist * Having low self-esteem * Experiencing trauma or abuse * Being exposed to dieting culture

Treatment of Anorexia Nervosa

The treatment of anorexia nervosa typically involves a team of healthcare professionals, including a doctor, a therapist, and a registered dietitian. Treatment may include:

* Medical monitoring to ensure that the person is not at risk for serious health problems * Nutritional counseling to help the person develop a healthy eating plan * Psychotherapy to help the person address the underlying psychological issues that are contributing to the eating disorder * Medication to treat any co-occurring mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety

Prognosis for Anorexia Nervosa

The prognosis for anorexia nervosa varies depending on the severity of the disorder and the person's response to treatment. However, with early intervention and treatment, most people with anorexia nervosa can recover fully.

Anorexia nervosa is a serious eating disorder that can have a devastating impact on a person's physical and mental health. However, with early intervention and treatment, most people with anorexia nervosa can recover fully. If you are concerned that someone you know may have anorexia nervosa, it is important to encourage them to seek professional help.

Mental Health Issues and the Media: An Introduction for Health Professionals

by Gary Morris

4.6 out of 5