What are the signs and symptoms of anorexia nervosa?
• Losing weight is the most common symptom. Because of the extreme weight loss, a girls monthly period may stop or not ever start. When you eat, you may restrict or measure your food. For example, you may count out 10 peas, and then only eat 3 of them. • You may over-exercise, such as running or using the stair stepper much more than other people. • You may stop growing. You may have cracked or dry skin and thinning hair. There may be fine hair covering your body. You may feel cold all of the time. • You may have trouble thinking clearly. • You may act moody, impatient, rude, or want to be left alone a lot. You may feel your future is hopeless. What may be done to treat anorexia nervosa? A very important part of treatment is believing that you have a serious medical condition that may kill you. Anorexia may get worse and put your life in danger. You may be treated in your caregiver’s office or a clinic, or you may need to be treated in the hospital. Your caregiver may suggest that you
A very important part of treatment is believing that you have a serious medical condition that may kill you. Anorexia may get worse and put your life in danger. You may be treated in your caregiver’s office or a clinic, or you may need to be treated in the hospital. Your caregiver may suggest that you take medicine along with therapy. The medicine could include: • Anti-anxiety medicine: This medicine may be given to help you feel less nervous and more relaxed. • Anticonvulsants (an-ti-kon-VUL-sants): This medicine is given to control seizures. It may also be used to decrease violent behavior, aggression, or irritability. This medicine may also help control your mood swings. • Antidepressants: This medicine is given to decrease or prevent the symptoms of depression. Often people that have anorexia are also depressed. • Mood stabilizers: This medicine is given to control mood changes. • Multivitamins: Multivitamins may be needed to improve your health. Ask your caregiver which vitamin is
