Anorexia Nervosa is an eating disorder marked by extremely restricted food intake, intense fear of weight gain, and a distorted body image. Individuals with anorexia typically see themselves as overweight even when underweight.
Key Points:
- Two Subtypes:
- Restricting Type: Weight loss primarily through dieting, fasting, or excessive exercise.
- Binge-Eating/Purging Type: Involves binge eating and/or purging behaviors (vomiting, laxatives).
- Health Consequences: Malnutrition, low blood pressure, organ failure, and potentially fatal complications.
- Treatment: Often requires a multidisciplinary approach (nutritional rehab, psychotherapy, medical monitoring).
