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Anorexia Nervosa
Urgent
Anorexia nervosa is a serious eating disorder characterized by restriction of food intake, significantly low body weight, an intense fear of gaining weight, and a disturbed perception of body weight or shape. People with anorexia may severely limit food, exercise excessively, or use other behaviors to lose weight. The disorder can affect nutrition, bones, the heart, hormones, and other body systems, and it can occur in people of different ages and backgrounds.
Body System
Mental Health
When to Seek Medical Attention
Anorexia nervosa requires prompt medical and mental-health assessment because severe restriction and malnutrition can cause serious medical complications. Seek urgent care for significant weakness, fainting, dehydration, very slow or irregular heartbeat, chest symptoms, confusion, or inability to maintain adequate nutrition or fluids. Emergency evaluation is needed for loss of consciousness, severe cardiac symptoms, severe dehydration, or other signs of medical instability.
Symptoms
3
Causes
1
Treatments
5
Diet
3
Overview
Anorexia nervosa is a serious eating disorder characterized by restriction of food intake, significantly low body weight, an intense fear of gaining weight, and a disturbed perception of body weight or shape. People with anorexia may severely limit food, exercise excessively, or use other behaviors to lose weight. The disorder can affect nutrition, bones, the heart, hormones, and other body systems, and it can occur in people of different ages and backgrounds.
Symptoms 3
Depressed Mood
Loss of Appetite
Weight Loss
Causes 1
The exact cause of anorexia nervosa is not fully understood. Genetic, biological, psychological, and social factors may all contribute. Differences in brain and hormone function may play a role, while attitudes about body shape and weight can influence risk. Certain personality traits, anxiety, negative self-image, perfectionism, and earlier eating difficulties may also contribute. Anorexia can develop through an interaction of several factors rather than from one identifiable cause.
Stress
Risk Factors
Risk factors include a strong concern about body weight or shape, negative self-image, perfectionistic or highly rule-focused behavior, anxiety disorders, and certain social or cultural pressures related to appearance. Eating difficulties during childhood or adolescence may also be associated with increased risk. Anorexia commonly begins during the preteen or teenage years or young adulthood and is more frequently diagnosed in females, although it can affect males and people of all ages.
Diagnosis
Diagnosis is based on a patient's medical history,
symptoms, physical examination and, when necessary,
laboratory or imaging investigations.
Diagnosis involves assessment of eating behavior, weight changes, thoughts about food and body image, and physical health. A healthcare professional may perform a physical examination and order tests to identify complications of inadequate nutrition or other causes of weight loss. Blood counts, electrolyte and kidney tests, liver and thyroid tests, protein measurements, urinalysis, electrocardiography, and bone-density testing may be used when appropriate. Psychological assessment also helps identify the characteristic eating and body-image concerns.
Prevention
Key Prevention Tips
There is no guaranteed way to prevent anorexia nervosa, but early recognition of unhealthy eating behaviors and excessive concern about weight may allow treatment before severe complications develop
Healthy attitudes toward food, body image, and physical activity can be encouraged in families, schools, and healthcare settings
Avoiding harmful dieting practices and discussing persistent concerns about weight, eating, or body image with a qualified professional can support early identification
People recovering from an eating disorder benefit from continued medical and psychological follow-up
Prevention Guidance
There is no guaranteed way to prevent anorexia nervosa, but early recognition of unhealthy eating behaviors and excessive concern about weight may allow treatment before severe complications develop. Healthy attitudes toward food, body image, and physical activity can be encouraged in families, schools, and healthcare settings. Avoiding harmful dieting practices and discussing persistent concerns about weight, eating, or body image with a qualified professional can support early identification. People recovering from an eating disorder benefit from continued medical and psychological follow-up.
Reminder: Prevention recommendations should be tailored to your personal health status and risk factors.
Treatment & Management 5
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Detailed treatment guidance is currently being prepared.
Medical Note: The treatment information provided is intended for educational purposes only.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before starting,
stopping, or changing any treatment.
Diet & Nutrition 3
Recommended Foods
Protein-rich Foods
Support recovery and nutrition
Whole Grains
Provide energy
Healthy Fats
Support healthy weight restoration
Foods to Avoid
Skipping Meals
Avoid food restriction
Excess Dieting
May worsen condition
Medical Nutrition Note: Diet recommendations are intended for general educational purposes and should be tailored to individual health needs by a qualified healthcare professional.
Frequently Asked Questions 5
An eating disorder characterized by restricted food intake.
Psychological, genetic, and social factors contribute.
Weight loss, food restriction, and body image concerns.
Yes, early treatment improves outcomes.
Through medical and psychological evaluation.
Helpful Tip: These answers provide general medical information.
Consult your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your condition.