Anorexia

A person with anorexia nervosa, often called anorexia, has an intense fear of gaining weight. Anorexia nervosa is one of three of the most common eating disorders. The other two being bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder. Anorexia mostly affects girls and women. With anorexia, your body doesn't get the energy from foods that it needs, so it slows down. Anorexia can slow the heart rate and lower blood pressure, increasing the chance of heart failure. Those who use drugs to stimulate vomiting, bowel movements, or urination are also at high risk for heart failure. Starvation can also lead to heart failure, as well as damage the brain. Anorexia may also cause hair and nails to grow brittle. In short, anorexia is a very serious condition. People with anorexia may need several types of treatment. If their life is in immediate danger, they may need treatment in the emergency department for such issues as dehydration, electrolyte imbalances or psychiatric problems. Treatment of anorexia usually requires a team approach that includes medical providers, mental health professionals and dietitians, all with experience in eating disorders.