Anorexia nervosa is a serious disorder in which the individual experiences an intense fear of gaining weight, severely restricts eating behaviors, and has distortions in body perception, despite being well below normal weight. is an eating disorderIt usually begins during puberty and is more common in women than in men.
This discomfort is not only physical, but also psychological and social dimensions It is a complex situation that needs to be evaluated.
What are the symptoms of anorexia?
Anorexia symptoms manifest themselves in both physical and psychological areas. Here are the main symptoms to watch out for:
1. Excessive Weight Loss
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The individual feels overweight even though he or she is below normal weight.
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Conscious avoidance of eating is observed.
2. Food Avoidance and Obsessive Eating Behaviors
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An obsession with calories, fat content, and food ingredients may develop.
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Completely eliminating certain food groups (e.g. carbohydrates).
3. Vigorous Exercise
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Trying to burn calories by exercising excessively every day.
4. Don't Starve Yourself
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Do not suppress or deny hunger.
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Not eating as a means of demonstrating self-control.
5. Intense Body Criticism in Front of the Mirror
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Don't think you are overweight when you look in the mirror.
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Severe distortions in body perception.
6. Menstrual Irregularities or Cessation (Amenorrhea)
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In women, hormonal balance can be disrupted as body fat percentage drops significantly.
7. Sensitivity to Cold
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Constant feeling of cold due to low body temperature.
8. Skin and Hair Problems
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Drying of the skin, hair loss or fluff (lanugo) may occur.
9. Social Isolation
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Avoiding meals with family and friends.
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The tendency to perform eating behavior alone.
10. Depression and Anxiety
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Anorexia often occurs together with low self-esteem, lack of self-confidence, depression and anxiety disorders.
What are the causes of anorexia?
This disease occurs as a result of a combination of genetic, biological, psychological and environmental factors:
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Genetic predisposition: Family history of eating disorders.
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perfectionism ve high success pressure.
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Media influence: Idealization of the thin body.
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TraumasIncidents such as sexual, emotional or physical abuse.
What Complications Can Anorexia Lead To?
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Heart rhythm disorders
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Hypotension
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muscle loss
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Bone resorption (osteoporosis)
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Kidney and liver failure
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Infertility
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In intensive cases risk of death (It has the highest mortality rate among eating disorders)
How to Cope with Anorexia Nervosa?
Treatment is a must a multi-disciplinary approach These are:
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Psychotherapy (especially Cognitive Behavioral Therapy – CBT)
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Nutrition counseling and controlled weight gain
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Psychiatric support (use of medication when necessary)
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Family therapy (especially with young individuals)
Conclusion and Warning
Anorexia is not just a physical illness; it is a spiritual cry. As a society, we need to redefine body image, question media messages, and nourish young people’s souls, not their bodies.
If you or a loved one exhibits some of these symptoms, you should definitely consult a specialist. Early diagnosis is vital.
