Anorexia is a condition that largely strikes women between 15 and 24 but can affect both men and women of all ages. Its prevalence is believed to range from 0.1% to more than 5% of the population, and it’s becoming more common. Those with anorexia might be underweight but continue to diet and exercise obsessively, or they might try unhealthy methods of weight loss. The condition tends to be accompanied by a fear of weight gain.
Am I At Risk?
Researchers don’t yet fully understand why some people develop symptoms of anorexia. They suspect that genes or a family history play a role in its onset, but societal factors can also increase a person’s risk of developing anorexia. Other risk factors include:
- A poor or negative self-image
- Having an anxiety disorder
- Feeding difficulties in infancy
- Perfectionist tendencies
- Embracing social and cultural belief systems regarding health and beauty
Spotting the Symptoms of Anorexia
Being aware of and recognizing eating disorder symptoms are critical to getting the necessary treatment. Those with anorexia may be 15% or more below a healthy body weight, but have an extremely distorted body image or unhealthy focus on losing more weight. Girls and young women from teens to early 20s are most likely to develop symptoms.
Behavioral symptoms of anorexia can include:
- Cutting food into small pieces or developing unusual rituals surrounding food and meals
- Exercising frequently or obsessively
- Refusing to share meals with others or eat publicly
- Abusing laxatives, water pills or diet pills
Physical symptoms of anorexia might include:
- Yellow, abnormally pale or blotchy skin
- Skin that is covered with fine hair called lanugo
- Depression, poor memory, confusion and slow thinking
- Dry mouth, which can lead to tooth decay and cavities
- Bloating and constipation
- Anemia
- Low blood pressure
- Brittle nails and hair
- Painful joints, decreased muscle mass and weakened bones
- Sensitivity to cold
Without treatment, the symptoms of anorexia can lead to permanent damage and potentially life-threatening complications. However, many conventional treatment methods are not effective for everyone. If you’ve tried and failed with traditional medical treatment, you need an alternative solution. Eating disorder therapist Roy Nelson can be an instrumental part of your successful recovery.
It’s possible to remedy the struggle you’re facing without resorting to negative habits. The Nelson Method, dredges up the causes that may have spawned your addiction. No other program aims to achieve this.
Roy Nelson is not a medical professional though he will work with your medical advisor through the 28-Day Mentorship – when appropriate.
Everyone wants to think they’re exempt from seeking help from addiction. If you’re second-guessing whether you have a problem, you’re most likely caught in the grip of addiction. You should never hesitate to seek the appropriate addiction treatment options.
Don’t battle addiction alone – it can’t be conquered by just you.
Roy Nelson Healing can help alleviate the suffering, and can help you or a loved one eradicate the intrusive thoughts and compulsive behaviors of anorexia. You owe it to yourself to reap the benefits of renewed health and happiness. Call us today and embark on your journey towards recovery!
