Not eating enough food and over conscious of the physical appearance is the first sign of Anorexia. The other symptoms include:

• Extreme weight loss
• Thin appearance
• Intense fear of gaining weight
• Bingeing and purging
• Abnormal blood counts
• Fatigue
• Insomnia
• Dizziness or fainting
• Bluish discolouration of the fingers
• Hair that thins, breaks or falls out
• Soft, downy Hair covering the body
• Amenorrhea (absence of menstruation)
• Constipation
• Dry or yellowish skin
• Intolerance of cold
• Irregular heart rhythms
• Low blood pressure
• Dehydration
• Osteoporosis
• Swelling of arms or legs

Common symptoms and their severity as reported by people on Patientslikeme.

The exact cause is not known. The following factors may play a role:

• Genetic: Certain genetic changes confer a predisposition
• Neurochemical factors - Serotonin, norepinephrine and dopamine dysfunction
• Environmental: Socio- cultural influences that project thinness as a desirable trait and peer pressure which encourages associated behaviours

Psychological factors include:

• Tendency towards depression and anxiety
• Difficulty in handling stress
• Excessive worrying and feeling scared or doubtful about the future
• Perfectionism – setting strict, demanding goals or standards
• Being very emotionally restrained
• Having feelings of obsession and compulsion

There is no way to prevent anorexia. Early diagnosis and treatment slows down the disease progression

• Avoid punishing or rewarding your children with food