Anorexia
Informed by recognized medical guidance
Overview
Anorexia nervosa is a serious eating disorder and mental health condition. People with anorexia severely restrict the amount of food they eat, have an intense fear of gaining weight, and see their body in a distorted way. It is not a choice or a lifestyle — it is an illness that affects both mind and body.
Key facts
- Anorexia is a mental health condition, not a diet or a phase.
- People with anorexia often have an intense fear of gaining weight, even when they are underweight.
- With early treatment and support, many people recover.
Anorexia is relatively rare compared to other mental health conditions, but it can affect anyone. It most often begins during the teenage years or young adulthood.
Anorexia can affect people of all ages, genders, races, and backgrounds. It is more commonly diagnosed in females, but males and non-binary people also experience anorexia and may be less likely to seek help.
Symptoms
- Fainting, seizures, or loss of consciousness
- Chest pain or very irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
- Severe dizziness or inability to stand
- Confusion or not knowing where you are
- Thinking about or planning to harm yourself or end your life
- ⚠Very rapid weight loss (for example, more than a pound or 0.5 kg per week)
- ⚠Refusing to eat or drink for more than 24 hours
- ⚠Heart rate below 40 beats per minute or feeling extremely weak
- ⚠Severe dehydration — dry mouth, sunken eyes, inability to urinate
- ⚠Suicidal thoughts or plans
Common symptoms
- Severely restricting food intake or skipping meals
- Extreme weight loss or being significantly underweight
- Intense fear of gaining weight or becoming 'fat'
- Distorted body image — seeing yourself as overweight even when you are not
- Preoccupation with food, calories, and dieting
- Avoiding eating in social situations
- Using laxatives, vomiting, or excessive exercise to 'undo' eating
Symptoms in children
- Weight loss or failure to gain weight as expected
- Pickiness that becomes extreme, with once-favorite foods suddenly avoided
- Reporting stomach aches or other complaints to avoid meals
- Obsessive talk about dieting, weight, or body shape
- Running to the bathroom after meals
- Changes in mood, irritability, or withdrawal from family and friends
Symptoms in older adults
- Unintentional weight loss that may be blamed on aging or other illness
- Loss of appetite that gets worse over time
- New or worsening fear of gaining weight related to health conditions (for example, after a heart attack)
- Changes in taste or smell that lead to restricting food
- Eating alone or avoiding shared meals
- Depression, anxiety, or dementia-related changes may mask the eating disorder
Causes
Main causes
- Genetics — a family history of eating disorders or mental illness can increase risk
- Psychological traits — low self-esteem, perfectionism, anxiety, or a need for control
- Social pressure — unrealistic beauty standards, bullying, or teasing about weight
- Life transitions — grief, abuse, school stress, a breakup, or a big change can trigger restrictive eating
Risk factors
- Teenage years and young adulthood
- Being female (though anorexia affects people of all genders)
- Participating in sports or activities that emphasize thinness, such as gymnastics, figure skating, or modelling
- History of dieting or weight loss attempts
- Other mental health conditions like depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder, or anxiety
When to see a doctor
See a doctor urgently if:
- Self-harm or suicidal thoughts
- Medical emergencies like fainting, chest pain, or seizures
- Severe dehydration or inability to keep fluids down
Book a routine appointment if:
- If you or someone you care for shows signs of restrictive eating, rapid weight loss, or fear around eating and weight
- If a child is not growing or gaining weight as expected
- If you notice symptoms lasting more than a few weeks
Diagnosis
Your GP will ask about eating habits, weight, feelings about body image, and any other symptoms. They will also check your overall health. The doctor will likely involve a mental health professional to assess your thoughts and emotions.
Tests that may be done
- Physical examination — height, weight, blood pressure, heart rate
- Blood tests — to check electrolytes, blood count, liver and kidney function
- Electrocardiogram (ECG) — to check the heart's rhythm
- Bone density scan — if low oestrogen/testosterone or prolonged underweight has affected bones
What to expect at your appointment
Diagnosis is made from both physical and psychological signs. The doctor may talk to a parent or partner as well, with your permission. You may be asked to fill in questionnaires about your eating habits and how you feel about your body. Be honest — this helps the care team understand your situation and plan the right support.
Treatment
Treatment for anorexia usually involves a team approach. This includes medical care, psychological therapy, and nutrition support. The earlier treatment starts, the better the chance of full recovery. For younger people, involving the family is often key.
Self-care at home
- Stick to small, regular meals — eating every 2-4 hours helps your body recover
- Follow advice from your dietitian or doctor about portions and balance
- Keep a journal to notice triggers or difficult thoughts, but avoid obsessing over food logs
- Practice self-compassion — recovery is a process, not a straight line
- Reach out to a trusted friend or support group when you feel low
- Limit exposure to 'fitspiration' or diet culture content online
Medical treatments
Treatments may include psychotherapy such as family-based therapy (where the family helps restore weight in younger people) or cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) to address unhelpful thoughts and behaviours. In some cases, medication may be offered to treat co-occurring conditions like depression or anxiety, but no medication is a direct cure for anorexia. Very low weight or serious medical complications may require care in hospital or a specialist eating disorder unit.
When is surgery considered?
Surgery is normally not used for anorexia. If severe malnutrition has caused complications that require surgery, such as a feeding tube or other procedures, that would be handled by specialists in a hospital.
Living with this condition
Living with anorexia is challenging. Routine, patience, and support are vital. Work with your team to make a meal plan that feels safe but nourishing. Celebrate small victories — each meal eaten and each appointment attended is progress.
Lifestyle tips
- Keep a consistent schedule for meals and snacks
- Find gentle movement that you enjoy and that is approved by your doctor, such as short walks or yoga
- Practice sleep hygiene — aim for a regular bedtime routine
- Reduce alcohol or caffeine, which can interfere with recovery
- Stay connected with people who support you, not those who encourage rigid dieting
Diet and exercise
A balanced diet with adequate calories, protein, fats, and carbohydrates is essential for restoring health. This does not mean 'junk food' — it means a variety of nutritious foods that fuel your body and brain. If you are under the care of a dietitian, follow their guidance. Exercise should be gentle and only with medical approval; it should not be a way to 'burn off' food.
Mental health and emotional wellbeing
Anorexia often comes with anxiety, depression, and obsessive thoughts. It is not a weakness. Therapy can help you build coping skills and reshape how you see yourself. Be kind to yourself — recovery from an eating disorder is one of the bravest journeys a person can take.
Prevention
There is no guaranteed way to prevent anorexia, but early help is proven to make a huge difference. Encouraging a healthy relationship with food and body image at home, avoiding 'fat talk', and intervening at the first signs of restrictive eating can stop the illness from becoming entrenched.
Complications
If left untreated
- Severe dehydration and electrolyte imbalances that can cause heart rhythm problems or cardiac arrest
- Loss of bone density leading to osteoporosis and fractures
- Kidney or liver damage
- Anemia (low blood counts) and weakened immune system
- Digestive problems, constipation, and gastric emptying issues
- Stunted growth or delayed puberty in younger people
- High risk of death due to complications or suicide
Long-term outlook
Recovery is possible. Many people with anorexia fully recover, especially when they receive early, consistent treatment. Some people continue to manage symptoms over time, but with the right support, most can regain a healthy weight, restore their relationships, and live a meaningful life. Be patient with yourself — progress may be slow, but every step counts.
Find support
International organisations
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Always verify with your doctor
Health guidelines vary by country and region. The information in this article is based on international clinical guidelines but may not reflect the specific guidelines, medications, or practices in your country. Always discuss your health concerns with your own doctor or healthcare provider, and refer to your local national health guidelines where available.
Important notice This information is for educational purposes only. It does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider about your specific situation. If you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency services immediately.
Related conditions
Sources and guidance
This article is educational and is prepared with reference to recognized health information and clinical guidance sources where available. Specific source links may vary by topic.
Last updated: July 31, 2026
Educational note: This information is for education only and is not a diagnosis.
Use it to support, not replace, advice from a licensed clinician.
If symptoms are severe, worsening, or urgent, call your local emergency number or seek emergency care.