Anorexia can greatly impact the functions of the body. Normally, cuts heal and discolored bruising fades within a few days. Because of the lack of nutrients, this process takes much longer in people with anorexia. Even small trips and falls can lead to large marks that last months. This is a sign that treatment for anorexia is essential. However, this treatment may not be effective in all cases.
Anorexia nervosa
Anorexia nervosa causes a large number of physical complications. People with anorexia lack nutrients, leading to significant aches and pains. Bones are particularly susceptible to breakage in people who suffer from osteoporosis. The disease affects different parts of the body, including the hips, spine, and nails. It can also be triggered by activity.
Anorexia nervosa causes severe changes in many of the organs of the body. Its physical symptoms include constipation, brittle hair, and dry skin. These changes are indicative of a serious underlying emotional condition. Fortunately, there are treatment options for anorexia nervosa. Once anorexics stop starving themselves, they can return to eating more nutritious foods. Treatment also can reverse the harmful consequences of anorexia and restore a normal weight.
The underlying causes of anorexia are often complex and difficult to pinpoint. Genetics, personality, and environmental factors all play a role in anorexia nervosa’s development. People with the disorder are genetically predisposed to develop the condition, but environmental factors may also play a role. There are no known cures for anorexia nervosa, but treatment options can provide an opportunity for recovery.
Binge-purge type anorexia
In addition to easy bruising, anorexia can lead to swollen and altered skin. The lack of fat and protruding bones may lead to pressure sores. Edema can develop due to prolonged starvation, purging, and weight restoration. The discomfort and pain caused by edema can be extremely distressing for the patient. In most cases, it will resolve once the anorexic returns to a healthy weight.
Patients with this disorder often engage in self-induced vomiting. They also use laxatives in excess amounts to decrease absorption and speed up the emptying of the stomach. Medications like diuretics may also be used to control their body’s water content. Binge-purge anorexia can lead to easy bruising and is associated with loss of self-control.
Symptoms of refeeding syndrome
If you’re experiencing refeeding syndrome, seek medical care immediately. Depending on the severity, this potentially fatal condition can lead to serious medical complications, including elevated blood pressure, irregular heartbeat, fatigue, respiratory failure, seizures, and even coma. Symptoms typically occur within four days after beginning the refeeding process. Although it is rare, it is critical to seek medical attention if you suspect that you are suffering from refeeding syndrome.
In hospitalized adolescents with anorexia nervosa, refeeding with higher calorie diets can result in faster weight gain and shorten the hospital stay. Higher calorie diets are associated with a lower length of hospital stay, but no increased risk of refeeding syndrome. Therefore, higher-calorie diets should not be viewed as a cure for anorexia nervosa, but rather as a treatment for the disorder.
Side effects
Anorexia is a condition in which a person’s body is unable to repair itself quickly, leading to an increased risk of easy bruising. This condition is particularly dangerous because anorexia severely compromises the body’s ability to repair itself. Typical people can heal cuts and discolored bruising in a matter of days, but anorexics’ body lacks adequate amounts of nutrients, making their skin more vulnerable to injury. In addition, their blood vessels are weaker than normal, making them more susceptible to bruising.
Another common symptom of anorexia is coldness. People with anorexia often complain about being cold and wear heavy clothing in mild weather. However, the body’s low body fat can lead to water retention and swollen hands and feet. It can even affect the kidneys. Those who have no fat in their bodies are prone to dry skin and fingernails and may experience hair loss.
