Anorexia nervosa is a complex eating disorder characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image.

Individuals with anorexia nervosa often have an obsessive desire to control their weight and limit their food intake, which can lead to severe physical and emotional consequences. Understanding the physical and emotional symptoms associated with anorexia nervosa is crucial for early detection, intervention, and treatment.

Physical Symptoms

1. Extreme weight loss: Individuals with anorexia nervosa have a significantly low body weight, often below what is considered medically healthy for their age and height.

2. Thin appearance: People with anorexia nervosa may appear frail, with visible bones and a pronounced loss of muscle mass.

3. Fatigue and weakness: Severe calorie restriction deprives the body of energy, leading to feelings of constant fatigue and weakness.

4. Hair loss: In an effort to conserve energy, the body may redirect resources away from hair growth, resulting in thinning of the hair or noticeable hair loss.

5. Low body temperature: Individuals with anorexia nervosa may experience chronically low body temperature, making them feel cold even in warm environments.

6. Dry skin: A lack of proper nutrition can cause the skin to become dry, rough, and develop a yellowish tint.

7. Brittle nails: Malnutrition can result in weakened and brittle nails that are prone to breaking and flaking.

8. Constipation: Insufficient food intake can lead to slowed digestion and irregular bowel movements, causing constipation.

9. Amenorrhea: In females, a reduction in body weight can disrupt hormonal balance, leading to the absence of menstrual periods.

10. Dehydration: Limited fluid intake can cause dehydration, resulting in frequent thirst, dry mouth, and dizziness.

Emotional Symptoms

1. Excessive fear of weight gain: People with anorexia nervosa have an unreasonable fear of gaining weight or becoming overweight, even if they are already significantly malnourished.

2. Distorted body image: A distorted perception of one’s own body is a hallmark of anorexia nervosa. Individuals may perceive themselves as overweight, regardless of how thin they actually are.

3. Preoccupation with food and calories: Thoughts about food, calories, and weight control become consuming, often overshadowing other aspects of life.

4. Depression and anxiety: Anorexia nervosa is commonly associated with depressive and anxious symptoms, which may intensify as the disorder progresses.

5. Social withdrawal: The obsession with food and weight can lead to social isolation as individuals may avoid social events or gatherings where food is present.

6. Irritability and mood swings: Hunger, malnutrition, and the physical toll of the disorder can contribute to irritability, mood swings, and difficulty concentrating.

7. Perfectionism and control issues: Anorexia nervosa often co-occurs with perfectionism and a desire for control, creating a vicious cycle of strict dietary rules and rituals.

8. Denial of the problem: Many individuals with anorexia nervosa fail to recognize or acknowledge the severity of their eating disorder, making it challenging to seek help.

9. Obsessive exercising: Excessive exercise is common among individuals with anorexia nervosa as a way to further burn calories and control weight.

10. Emotional rigidity: People with anorexia nervosa may struggle with emotional flexibility, finding it difficult to adapt to changes or cope with stress.