Anorexia nervosa

Zakharova AlinaClass 10

Gatchina School №4

Anorexia nervosa

Anorexia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by immoderate food restriction and irrational fear of gaining weight, as well as

a distorted body self-perception.

History The history of anorexia nervosa begins with descriptions of religious fasting

dating from the Hellenistic era and continuing into the medieval period. A number of well known historical figures, including Catherine of Siena and Mary, Queen of Scots are believed to have suffered from the condition anorexia.

SymptomsDepression: may frequently be in a sad, lethargic stateSolitude: may avoid friends and family; becomes withdrawn and

secretiveCheeks may become swollen because of enlargement of the salivary

glands caused by excessive vomitingSwollen jointsAbdominal distensionBad breath (from vomiting or starvation-induced ketosis)Hair loss or thinningFatigueRapid mood swings

Anorexia nervosa most often has its onset in adolescence and is more prevalent among adolescent females than adolescent males. However, more recent studies show the onset age has decreased from an average of 13 to 17 years of age to 9 to 12. While it can affect men and women of any age, race, and socioeconomic and cultural background, anorexia nervosa occurs in ten times more females than males.

Alternative medicine

Yoga: In preliminary studies individualized yoga treatment has shown positive results for use as an adjunctive therapy to standard care. The treatment was shown to reduce eating disorder symptoms, including food preoccupation, which decreased immediately after each session. Scores on the Eating Disorder Examination decreased consistently over the course of treatment.

No Anorexia!