Symptoms and Complications
People with anorexia nervosa may appear severely emaciated due to malnutrition, sometimes so severe their ribs can be seen through the skin. Other common symptoms of anorexia include:
- constipation
- dehydration
- depression
- dizziness
- dry, scaly skin
- faintness or weakness
- inability to concentrate
- intolerance to cold
- irritability
- loss of body fat
- low blood pressure
- missed, or absence of, menstrual periods
- psychological fears of obesity and weight gain
- slow heartbeat
While most people feel hungry and uncomfortable when their calorie intake is low or restricted, people with anorexia suppress this discomfort and usually lose the ability to appreciate normal hunger cues. As they begin to starve, they may experience a feeling of euphoria, similar to how a runner or jogger gets the well-known "runner's high."
If the onset of anorexia occurs before puberty, a girl's sexual development will stop and menstruation won't begin. Severe anorexia leads to chronic malnutrition, which has damaging effects on the body, especially the thyroid, heart, and digestive and reproductive systems. Anorexia can be fatal. Half of those who die with anorexia die of suicide and half die of medical complications.
Some people with bulimia may experience episodic weight loss, while others maintain a normal weight. In some cases, menstrual cycles may be affected and stop, but menstruation is usually preserved. Possible symptoms of bulimia include:
- dehydration (due to excess use of laxatives or frequent self-induced vomiting)
- tooth decay and erosion (due to the acids that are brought up from severe and constant vomiting)
- low blood pressure
- constipation
- swollen cheek glands (like mumps)
- abnormal hormone levels
- stomach problems
- irregular heartbeat
A variety of complications can result from the constant vomiting. For example, inflammation of the esophagus (called esophagitis) and severe dental problems can occur. At its worst, constant purging can lead to heart damage. People with bulimia may have a history of anorexia or obesity. They may also have psychiatric problems such as depression, anxiety disorders, social phobias, and panic disorder, as well as addictive behaviors like alcohol or drug abuse.