Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by an obsessive preoccupation with losing weight and staying thin, which leads to extreme restriction in food intake and a distorted perception of one's body. This disease not only has devastating psychological effects, but can also have serious physical consequences on the body of those who suffer from it.
Physical effects of anorexia
Anorexia nervosa affects not only the mind, but also the body of the person who suffers from it. As the disease progresses and nutrition becomes insufficient, a series of physical effects occur that can endanger the individual's life. Below are some of the most common physical effects of anorexia:
Excessive weight loss
One of the most obvious physical effects of anorexia is extreme weight loss. . Severe restriction of food intake and obsession with maintaining a lean body lead to a drastic reduction in body weight. This weight loss can be dangerous and cause malnutrition, muscle weakness, and other serious health problems.
Cardiovascular problems
Anorexia can have serious repercussions on the cardiovascular system. Lack of nutrients can weaken the heart and lower blood pressure, increasing the risk of arrhythmias, heart failure and other cardiovascular problems. Additionally, dehydration and electrolyte imbalance caused by anorexia can have adverse effects on heart function.
Disorders in the digestive system
Insufficient and unbalanced diet in anorexia can cause a series of problems in the digestive system. Among the most common effects are constipation, stomach problems, abdominal bloating, and intolerance to certain foods. Lack of adequate nutrients can also affect the absorption of nutrients in the intestine, which further aggravates the situation.
Bone and muscle problems
Anorexia can have serious consequences on the bones and muscles. Deficiency of calcium and other nutrients essential for bone health can lead to osteoporosis, increasing the risk of fractures and bone injuries. Additionally, a lack of nutrients can cause muscle weakness, cramps, and decreased muscle mass, which affects a person's strength and ability to move.
Skin and hair problems
The lack of essential nutrients in anorexia can also manifest itself in dermatological problems. Dry skin, peeling, brittle hair and hair loss are common effects of malnutrition. These problems not only affect physical appearance, but can also indicate deficiencies of vitamins and minerals that are necessary for the proper functioning of the body.
Hormonal disorders
Anorexia can trigger alterations in the person's endocrine and hormonal system. Lack of nutrients and weight loss can affect the production of hormones such as leptin, insulin, and cortisol, which can lead to hormonal imbalances. These imbalances can cause menstrual irregularities in women, sexual dysfunction, thyroid problems and other hormonal disorders.
Dental problems
Anorexia can also have repercussions on oral health. A lack of essential nutrients can weaken tooth enamel and increase the risk of cavities and gum disease. Additionally, the common practice of using laxatives and inducing vomiting in people with anorexia can lead to erosion of tooth enamel, cavities, and other dental problems.
In short, anorexia nervosa not only affects the mind and well-being emotional suffering of those who suffer from it, but also has serious physical consequences that can endanger the person's life. It is crucial to address not only the psychological aspects of the disorder, but also provide appropriate medical and nutritional treatment to address the physical effects and prevent serious complications.