Anorexia Nervosa - Causes, Symptoms & Treatment

Anorexia nervosa is one type of eating disorder. Anorexia nervosa usually occurs in adolescence or young adulthood. Anorexia nervosa is the result of a complex interplay between biological, psychological, and social factors. Anorexia is also a way to try to cope with emotional problems, perfectionism and a desire for control. Individuals with anorexia often control body weight by voluntary starvation , purging , vomiting , excessive exercise , or other weight control measures, such as diet pills or diuretic drugs. The eating disorder is seen mainly in Caucasian women who are high academic achievers and have a goal-oriented family or personality. Anorexia nervosa has one of the highest mortality rates of all psychiatric disorders, with rates reported from 5-18%. Anorexia is a life threatening condition that can put a serious strain on many of the body's organs and physiological resources; it has the highest mortality rate of any psychiatric condition, with approximately 20% of people diagnosed with the condition eventually dying due to related factors. Anorexia puts a particular strain on the structure and function of the heart and cardiovascular system , with slow heart rate ( bradycardia ) and elongation of the QT interval seen early on. People with anorexia typically have a disturbed electrolyte balance, particularly low levels of phosphate , which has been linked to heart failure, muscle weakness, immune dysfunction, and ultimately death.