Anorexia - Finding and Caring for Its Ravagings

The first step in treating anorexia is to identify its symptoms with the patient By recognizing their own indicators, a patient is one step closer to conquering the disease

The first step in treating anorexia is to identify its symptoms with the patient. By recognizing their own indicators, a patient is one step closer to conquering the disease.

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.

The Basics of Anorexia

Anorexia nervosa is defined as a patient''s refusal to maintain a healthy body weight coupled with a strong fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image. Though related, Bulimia nervosa is not the same disease and refers to those who indulge in binge eating and then take action to prevent subsequent weight gain (such as purging or vomiting).

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.

To clinically identify the disease and then mark progress, it''s critical that psychiatrists and medical doctors obtain complete measurements of the patient''s height and weight. Their BMI (body mass index) can then be tracked on an ongoing basis. The doctor should also exclude other possible causes of the weight loss such as irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), diabetes mellitus or severe depression.

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.

Why Anorexia Nervosa is Hard to Treat

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. Given the serious nature of this problem, anyone who spots early warning symptoms in a loved one or friend should speak up quickly.

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