Anorexia is a type of eating disorder that affects typically women more than men. It’s characterized by extremely low body weight and an unhealthy view of their bodies. They can obsess over counting calories, eat a minimal amount of food or occasionally binge eat and throw up to avoid gaining weight. Knowing the signs of anorexia can help save a friend who is at serious risk of malnutrition. Anorexia treatment is very beneficial for women and men and teaches them healthy coping skills for managing their symptoms.
At Crestview Recovery, we support men and women 18 and over who are struggling with eating disorders using dialectical behavior therapy and other treatment methods. We meet with each patient privately to help them manage their symptoms of anorexia and talk about their body-image issues and self-esteem. Then, we work to change their unhealthy self-image. Reach out to our knowledgeable team today at 866.262.0531 for more information about our anorexia treatment program.
What are the Physical Signs of Anorexia?
Anorexia can lead to malnutrition, which happens when you don’t get enough vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that are essential for everyday survival. Anorexia typically develops between 12–25 years of age. It can lead to a lack of physical development and other medical conditions such as:
- Low blood pressure
- Kidney and liver disease
- Heart failure
Men and women who struggle with anorexia will not recognize the harm they are inflicting upon themselves. They see their too-thin appearance as being healthy and won’t realize there is an underlying issue causing their distorted image of themselves.
Do you suspect a friend or loved one is struggling with anorexia? If so, here are some of the physical signs of anorexia to look for:
- Rapid weight loss
- Insomnia
- Feeling dizzy or faint
- Extreme fatigue
- Thinning hair
- Constipation
- Dry or yellowing skin
- Teeth erosion
At Crestview Recovery, our team has experience helping women and men manage their symptoms of anorexia and develop a healthier self-image. We use a combination of behavioral and holistic therapy through group and individual sessions to improve their lives.
5 Signs of Anorexia
Along with the physical signs of anorexia, there are emotional and behavioral signs that can point to an eating disorder. They may have a rigid and detailed plan for every meal, never eat in public, or spend a long time in a bathroom shortly after eating. Here are five additional signs of anorexia to look for:
- Portion sizes – Women and men with anorexia will typically eat very small meals that don’t meet the required calorie intake each person needs.
- Calorie counting – They will take counting calories to a new level. In fact, they’ll track every single calorie that they eat, even when they are eating in public.
- Body image – They will be obsessed over their bodies and nitpick over any real or imagined flaws. Some will be obsessed with diet fads or weight loss pills.
- Self-induced vomiting – For women and men struggling with anorexia, they may self-induce vomiting after eating. This can lead to teeth erosion, calloused fingers, swollen saliva glands, subconjunctival hemorrhaging, and pinpoint spots around the eyes.
- An obsessive need to exercise – working out for long periods of time or at odd hours.
Recognizing the signs of anorexia can save the life of someone you love, as this eating disorder can lead to serious malnutrition and death.
Crestview Recovery Offers Comprehensive Anorexia Treatment in Portland
At Crestview Recovery, we work with men and women who are struggling with eating disorders and want help getting mentally and physically healthy. We work with each patient to learn their unique symptoms of anorexia. Then, we develop an effective treatment plan that addresses all aspects of their eating disorder.
If you or someone you love is struggling with anorexia, call 866.262.0531 today to discover all of the benefits of our anorexia treatment program.
