Anorexia

=Anorexia Nervosa =

(A psychological eating disorder)

What causes Anorexia Nervosa?

 * Poor self image
 * Dysfunction in the brain
 * Hypoththalamus controls certain metabolic processes
 * Imbalances in neurotransmitter chemicals that involve signaling

Is it Genetic?

 * Studies suggest that it may be genetic, but nothing has been proven

What are the symptoms?

 * Irritable and easily upset
 * Trouble interacting with others
 * Sleeping patterns become disrupted
 * Decrease in concentration
 * Obsessed with food
 * Bizarre eating habits
 * Perfection issues
 * Displeasure with his or her body
 * Slow heart rate
 * Low blood Pressure
 * Gastrointestinal complications
 * changes in kidney function
 * bone density loss
 * anemia
 * dry, flaky, yellow tone skin
 * hair loss
 * brittle nails
 * denial about being too thin or having a problem

Are there any psychiatric problems associated with Anorexia?
= =
 * Mood disorders
 * Anxiety Disorders
 * Personality disorders

How is anorexia diagnosed?
Anorexia is often not diagnosed until after medical complications have developed due to most anorexic people hiding and refusing to admit they have a problem.

What treatment is available?
Medical treatment Hospitalization and inpatient treatment may be necessary if he or she is seriously malnourished or is at a life threatening weight. Nutritional Treatment A nutritionist will teach he or she healthy eating habits and meal plans that contain enough calories to help them maintain a healthy weight for inpatient treatment and outpatient treatment. Counseling and Therapy Group or individual counseling will help identify negative thoughts and feeling that contribute to the eating disorder for inpatient and outpatient treatment.

General Public perception of anorexia:
Anorexia is only for girls.

Truth:
Anorexia effects both males and females. In fact, men with anorexia are more likely to have a distorted body image and psychological issues.

Sources:
"Anorexia Nervosa - PubMed Health." Web. 20 Sept. 2011. [].

"Anorexia Nervosa Symptoms, Signs, Statistics, Treatment, Causes and Diagnosis by MedicineNet.com." Web. 20 Sept. 2011. [].

"NAMI | By Illness." //NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness - Mental Health Support, Education and Advocacy//. Web. 20 Sept. 2011. [].

Morgan and Carly