Physical Symtoms & Health risks

Hypotension (low blood pressure) bradycardia (abnormally slow heart rate) is common amongst anorexia patients. Arrhythmia (disturbances in heart rhythm) is also a manifestation found in many anorexic patents. A reduced capacity for the heart to do work. This means the heart is less able to pump sufficient oxygen supply to the working tissues especially during exercise. This can result in fainting or simply fatiguing quickly. Gastrointestinal problems such as constipation and abdominal pain often occur. The rate at which food is absorbed into the body decreases. Liver function is relatively normal however changes in enzyme levels can inflict over all damage upon the liver over time. Profoundly affected by starvation is the glandular system. The thyroid gland (which secretes hormones that control metabolic processes) becomes confused and slows the metabolism in order to conserve energy, when food is taken in it stores it. This means the body is not utilizing energy effectively and puts train upon the cardiovascular system. Disturbance in the menstrual cycle occurs which affects not only fertility but bone density too. Onset of Amenorrhea is also common. Kidney function appears normal however starvation can lead potassium deficiency which causes either increased or decreased urination.

Anorexic individuals who tend to vomit or take laxatives/diuretics are susceptible to an electrolyte imbalance. This can have life threatening consequences. Electrolytes are responsible for conducting electricity and are related to heart function being as the heart requires an electric impulse to beat!

A balance between water and electrolytes is essential. Electrolytes can be depleted through sweat (as a result of exercise usually) or in urine, which may be induced by taking diuretics. Without replenishing electrolyte levels or if they are diminished at a greater rate than they are replaced, can lead to a cardiac arrest (heart attack) or cardiac arrhythmia (less effective pumping of the heart can cause individual to black out)

Anaemia is a likely condition among anorexia sufferers. Anaemia is basically a lack of iron. Iron plays an essential role in red blood cell (haemoglobin) function. Oxygen binds with the iron aspect of red blood cells (Haem part), and is transported around the body to working tissues. As a result of iron deficiency, less oxygen is able to be transported with each beat of the heart, causing the heart to work harder. Sufferers often feel lethargic and fatigued in general even if they have not endured any exercise. A suppressed immune system along with Anaemia is suspected although not clinically proven.

People with anorexia often have very dry and flaky skin, sometimes with a yellow tinge or appear abnormally pale. Fine hair actually grows on the face, arms, legs and back although hair loss at the head is very common.

Brittle nails and eroded tooth enamel for those who frequently vomit which will lead to tooth loss if purging persists.

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