Continued from page 1

What are warning signs of anorexia?

There are many common signs of anorexia to look out. It's important to recognize these red flags as early as possible. Early detection and treatment is crucial. Anorexics can be identified by the following characteristics and symptoms:

- significant weight loss
- a belief that you are fat when you are clearly not
- depression
- only eating at the same time in the same place
- losing consciousness
- poor inoculations
- hair loss
- skin problems
- constant tiredness
- an over critical attitude towards others combined with excessive competitiveness. This is due to a desire to be perfect and essentially better than everyone else

If the condition is not addressed it can lead to severe damage to the body and in some cases death. As well as the cessation of menstruation, the development of osteoporosis and the breakdown of muscle tissue, it can cause fatal kidney failure and heart attacks.

How can anorexia be treated?

Identify the condition is only half the battle. You can't then simply tell the person to eat more. Psychologically they will need real help in order to overcome the disorder. If you suspect someone you are close to may be anorexic you must speak to your local doctor immediately. The quicker the condition is recognizes the less grip it will have taken on the sufferers life and the easier treatment will be. Many people can never be fully cured. They will continue to have urges to fall back into their old patterns. However, with support most people are able to effectively control these thoughts and live a healthy normal life.

Previous Page