Anorexia is a severe eating disorder where people quit eating the normal amounts because they feel they are fat or will become fat. This feeling is intense and very real to the individual. This disorder evolves into a psychological problem and eventually into a mental illness. Of all mental illnesses, this one has the highest death rate. The death rate is anywhere from 5%-20%. Teen age girls and women are most likely to have the disease.
One of the first warning signs is the fear of gaining weight. These people have a real worry about their weight status and their appearance. The concern about losing weight eventually turns into an obsession. The individuals life revolves around the cycle of losing more weight, even though others are constantly telling them that they are too thin. The problem for the anorexic person is that when they look at themselves in the mirror, they see a fat person. Many people with anorexia have a passion for exercise and those with anorexia are quite different from normal fitness enthusiasts.
People with anorexia normally put a lot of emphasis on the appearance of their body. They usually feel that they are judged by how their body appears. They feel that they have failed those around them, especially if they eat too much or put on some form of weight. One other warning sign is the fact that those with anorexia will always fail to admit that they have a problem. This is just like failing to admit an alcoholic or drug addiction problem. But unless one has seen the problem firsthand, they will not be ready to attack the issue and help the afflicted individual.
Anyone who has anorexia will starve their body of the necessary nutrients and minerals necessary for a healthy body. The immense toll on the body is quite apparent from the physical appearance. The real damage is to the organs. The heart is weakened and smaller and the kidneys and liver are taxed and have to work harder to sustain life. The bones are weakened and brittle and subject to fractures.
Any time you sense that someone has this disorder because of the symptoms observed above, then you will have to look for the appropriate counsel or advice of a health professional. An intervention will need to be attempted because these people need to get the quickest of attention if they are to survive. It could lead to a permanent damage of the body in the process. This dangerous disorder has to be recognized by family and friends. They then need to involve the necessary health professionals who can make referrals and determine the best approach is get the individual in for treatment. Indeed these warning signs do not have to be taken lightly because of the serious nature of this disease.
William writes articles for various topics. His specialty is dog health but he has various other interests. You can visit his newest websites at Tom Tom Ease and Nexus One Smartphone
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