Anorexia - Determining and Managing its Signs

Identifying anorexia symptoms with a patient is an important first step in not only diagnosing the disease, but helping to engage the patient in treatment.  

Because anorexia is such a dangerous disease with an incredibly high mortality rate, it's absolutely crucial that it is not only identified as early as possible, but that it's treated effectively.

To learn more about Anorexia, its symptoms and the difficulties associated with treating the disease, read on.

About Anorexia

Anorexia, or Anorexia nervosa, is a disease defined as a patient's refusal or (seemingly) inability to maintain a normal body weight. This is often coupled with intense anxiety and fear about gaining weight along with a false or distorted self image. People with anorexia often see themselves as fat, even if they are clearly emaciated and malnourished.

Common Symptoms of this Problem

Typically, anorexia is diagnosed by the patient him or herself or by a loved one who recognizes the warning signs of the disease. Treatment is then sought by a psychiatric professional. Common warning indicators include sudden and extreme weight loss, fatigue, fainting, high stress levels and nausea.

The disease is fairly easy to diagnose, particularly when it has reached a stage that is evident for the individual as well as onlookers - weight loss, hair loss, rotting teeth, poor skin condition, lethargy, dry skin, menstrual irregularities, etc.

Before the disease can be officially identified, tracked and then treated, a psychiatrist and doctor must obtain a full physical assessment of the patient - particularly their body mass index (BMI), which is calculated using their height and weight. The patient's BMI can then be tracked as a way of judging their progress throughout the course of treatment.

In addition, the supervising doctor should ask for a full blood count, electrolytes, thyroid function tests and liver function assessments. This ought to be done to either exclude hypokalaemia, anemia, or hyperthyroidism or identify them as possible side symptoms of the disease itself.

Difficulties Treating of Anorexia Nervosa

Diagnosing Anorexia may appear simple, however actually treating the disease is very difficult. Often patients are either in denial about the progression or effects of the disease or they hide their symptoms. Another common tactic is to pretend to participate in treatment while secretly engaging in weight loss tactics like hidden exercising or purging.

Many patients know they must seek treatment, but the idea of eating or possibly gaining weight is incredibly stressful and even frightening. They know the potential dangers and threat of death, but are unable to take action - essentially becoming psychologically paralyzed. Because the disease is often coupled with lethargy and depression, it's even harder to treat.

So, despite the fact that many anorexia symptoms can be quickly identified, the disease is very difficult to treat and cure. Early intervention is always recommended, along with the full support of a patient's family.