What is Anorexia?

Description of the disease

Anorexia is a serious mental disorder characterized by excessive concern about weight and body shape, as well as improper nutrition. People suffering from this disorder usually strive for extreme thinness by refusing food or controlling its quantity in harmful ways.

Classification

• Restrictive type: characterized by the desire to reduce weight through restricting food intake.
• Behavioral type: characterized by consuming large amounts of food and then getting rid of it through vomiting or taking laxatives.

Symptoms

• Weight loss
• Absence of menstruation in women
• Frequent dizziness or fainting
• Increased fatigue and weakness

Causes

The causes of anorexia can be diverse, including genetic, biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of anorexia includes physical examination, laboratory tests, and psychological assessment.

Treatment

Treatment for anorexia typically includes medication therapy, nutritional therapy, and behavioral therapy.

Prevention

Prevention of anorexia includes early detection and treatment of eating disorders, as well as education about a healthy lifestyle and nutrition.

Doctor

Treatment for anorexia may be provided by a psychiatrist, psychotherapist, dietitian, endocrinologist, and other specialists.