Anorexia is an
eating disorder in which a person can literally starve himself or herself to death. While women tend to have this disorder more often than men, anyone can develop it. An estimated 0.5 to 3.7 percent of females develop
anorexia nervosa in their lifetime.
One of the most common symptoms of this disorder is excessive weight loss, and people with anorexia believe they are fat even when they are dangerously thin. Often, the illness will develop after a stressful life event, such as the beginning of puberty or moving out of the parents' home. Treatment may involve psychotherapy, behavioral therapy, support groups, and hospitalization in some cases.
HealthSavvy Sign In
|