1. Anorexics Fear Getting Fat
Anorexic patients feel a profound dread at the thought of getting fat. When they look in the mirror, no matter how skinny they may be, they see someone that's heavy and unattractive. This distorted body image causes the person to stop eating and start using weight loss products to stay thin. Anorexic patients are often obsessed with exercising and counting the calories of each food item on their plate. This stems from predisposed personality traits, like perfectionism and low self esteem. Genetics, along with the person's inability to handle stress, also play a part in the development of the disorder.
2. Anorexics Aren't Just Skinny
Since anorexics lose an extreme amount of weight in such a short period of time, all body systems react poorly. Symptoms include thinning hair, heart palpitations, anemia, constipation, bloating and more. As the disease progresses, the effects worsen. Anorexia can cause a heart attack and kidney failure if left untreated. However, if a person seeks treatment early on, many of the disease's side effects are reversible.
3. Anorexia: More than a Woman's Disease
Although women are most often diagnosed with anorexia, the disease can occur in men as well. Research shows that as many as 10 percent of anorexic patients are male. Males tend to fit the same psychological profile as female anorexia sufferers. They're very hard on themselves with distorted views of their body. Both men and women often succumb to the idea that they need to have the same body shape as celebrities.
4. It Takes a Team to Treat Anorexia
Patients have numerous options open to them for treatment. They can look into inpatient hospital programs or receive anorexia treatment on an outpatient basis. The anorexic should work with both doctors and counselors to figure out a way to get mind and body healthy again. The patient may also meet with a nutritionist to figure out a way to reach a healthy weight. Anorexia involves long-term care and includes regular visits with a counselor or support group.
5. Anorexic Patients Want Help
If you suspect that someone close to you is suffering from anorexia nervosa, it's important that you get her help. However, you'll want to handle the situation carefully in order to convince her to get the care that she needs. Let the person know your concerns and tell her that you are there for her if she wants to talk. Never accuse the person or threaten her into getting medical treatment. She'll respond better to gentler tactics.
