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What are the health risks with anorexia nervosa?

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Health risks are caused by undereating (starvation) and by the methods used to get rid of eaten food (vomiting, excess laxatives, etc). Problems that may occur include the following:

Irregular periods. Many people with anorexia have irregular periods as hormone levels can be affected by poor diet. Your periods may even stop all together or you may find that your periods have never started, especially if you started having eating problems when you were younger. Some people with anorexia are even infertile (unable to have a baby).

Chemical imbalances in the body. These are caused by either repeated vomiting or excess use of laxatives. For example, a low potassium level which may cause tiredness, weakness, abnormal heart rhythms, kidney damage and convulsions. Low calcium levels can lead to tetany (muscle spasms).

Thinning of the bones (osteoporosis). This is caused by a lack of calcium and vitamin D and can lead to easily fractured bones.

Bowel problems. These may occur if you take a lot of laxatives. Laxatives can damage the bowel muscle and nerve endings. This may eventually result in permanent constipation and also sometimes abdominal pains.

Swelling of hands, feet and face. This is usually due to fluid disturbances in the body.

Teeth problems. These can be caused by the acid from the stomach rotting away the enamel with repeated vomiting.

Anaemia. Having a diet low in iron can lead to anaemia. This can make you feel weaker and more tired than normal. Dizzy spells and feeling faint can also occur.

Depression. It is common to feel low when you have anorexia. Some people even become depressed which can respond well to treatment. It is important to talk about any symptoms of depression you may have. Many people find they become more moody or irritable.

Loss of sex drive (libido). This can occur in both males and females with anorexia and can often be due to changes in hormone levels.

Hair and skin problems. You may find you have downy hair on your body and also the hair on your head becomes thinner. Many people with anorexia also have dry, rough skin.
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