Early symptoms of anorexia nervosa

Sep 13, 2022 Source: Cainiu Health

Dr. Zhao Haiming

Introduction

Symptoms of anorexia nervosa may manifest as abnormal behaviors. Early typical symptoms include behavioral abnormalities, with main symptoms consisting of food refusal, picky eating, excessive exercise, diarrhea, nausea, and other physical changes. Some patients with severe anorexia nervosa may also experience extreme emaciation, sleep disturbances, weight loss, and other somatic abnormalities.

Anorexia nervosa poses serious health risks to the human body. If left untreated in its early stages, it may lead to various complications. What are the initial symptoms of anorexia?

Initial Symptoms of Anorexia Nervosa

Symptoms of anorexia may include abnormal behaviors. In the early stage, typical signs involve behavioral abnormalities, primarily表现为refusal to eat, picky eating, excessive exercise, diarrhea, nausea, and other physical changes. Some patients with severe anorexia may also experience extreme weight loss, sleep disturbances, and significant weight reduction. Once such abnormal symptoms appear, immediate medical attention is required for proper diagnosis and treatment to mitigate harm.

Anorexia may also cause psychological disturbances. As the condition progresses, many patients develop mental health symptoms such as mood instability, irritability, depression, and anxiety. Gastrointestinal symptoms are also common. Patients with more severe cases may suffer from abdominal pain, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, malnutrition, and swelling in the limbs due to fluid retention.

In addition, some individuals with anorexia may exhibit other abnormalities such as upper abdominal fullness, nausea, vomiting, persistent constipation, loss of underarm hair, uterine atrophy, and reduced gonadal function. If you notice any of these discomforts, seek medical help immediately. Undergo appropriate medical evaluations to identify the underlying cause and follow your doctor’s recommendations for treatment to resolve the condition and restore health. Moreover, after treatment, pay attention to dietary adjustments—opt for light yet nutritious meals, and consume plenty of leafy vegetables and fruits. We hope this article has been helpful to you. Wishing you a happy and healthy life!

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What Causes Anorexia Nervosa?

Anorexia nervosa is a psychiatric disorder, and decreased appetite can stem from numerous causes—most commonly poor eating habits, leading to diminished interest in food and selective or picky eating. Treatment primarily focuses on correcting unhealthy dietary patterns and establishing sound eating habits. Although the prevalence of anorexia nervosa is relatively low, its mortality rate is high; thus, prompt medical intervention is essential upon diagnosis.

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Early Symptoms of Anorexia Nervosa

Symptoms of anorexia nervosa may include abnormal behaviors. In the early stages, typical manifestations primarily involve behavioral changes, such as refusal to eat, selective eating, excessive exercise, diarrhea, and nausea. Physical changes may also occur. In severe cases, patients may exhibit extreme emaciation, sleep disturbances, and significant weight loss. If any of these abnormal symptoms appear, seek medical attention immediately.

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Early Symptoms of Anorexia Nervosa in Females

Anorexia nervosa typically occurs in girls aged 12 to 18 years and is rare after age 30. Approximately one-third of patients are overweight or obese, and about half have pre-existing psychological issues—such as appetite suppression, significantly reduced food intake compared with normal individuals, or deliberate adherence to a low-calorie diet—prior to onset. Some patients experience episodes of uncontrollable hunger during the course of the illness, leading to intermittent binge eating.

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What Causes Anorexia Nervosa?

Anorexia nervosa may stem from familial and environmental factors—for instance, overly strict parental discipline or excessive emphasis on perfectionism; excessive dependence of the child on parents; childhood abuse; or growing up in a single-parent household. Children affected by these circumstances often display personality traits such as social withdrawal, heightened sensitivity, and poor psychological resilience. Societal factors also play a significant role, particularly the pervasive cultural preoccupation with achieving an excessively thin physique.