Health Risks of Anorexia

Health Risks of Anorexia: An Overview

The most severe and noticeable anorexia health risks resemble those of starvation. The body reacts to the lack of food by becoming extremely thin, developing brittle hair and nails, dry skin, lowered pulse rate, cold intolerance, and constipation, as well as occasional diarrhea. In addition, mild anemia, reduced muscle mass, loss of menstrual cycle, and swelling of joints often accompanies anorexia.

 

Beyond experiencing the immediate health risks of anorexia, individuals can suffer long-term health problems, regardless of treatment.

 

These long-term health risks include:

 

Heart Problems

Anorexia health risks related to the heart can include:

 

Heart failure in people with anorexia is even more likely in those who use drugs to stimulate vomiting, bowel movements, or urination.

 

Osteoporosis

Lack of calcium places anorexics at an increased risk for osteoporosis, both during their illness and in later life (see Anorexia and Osteoporosis).