Effects Of Anorexia

Physical Effects of Anorexia

The physical effects of anorexia nervosa affect every single system in the human body. With the dramatic weight loss and emaciation that accompanies the disorder, malnutrition and dehydration can occur. Lack of essential energy requirements and nutrients tax the entire body and can result in electrolyte disturbances such as hypokalemia (low blood potassium) and hyponatremia (low blood sodium), among others. Electrolyte disturbances, in turn, can cause heart arrhythmias, irregular heartbeats, and even heart attacks.

Anorexia can cause organ damage

The heart is not the only organ in the cardiovascular system that may be affected by anorexia. The blood itself may also be damaged. Abnormal blood counts and anemia (low red blood cells or abnormal red blood cells with impaired oxygen-carrying capacity) are not uncommon. People with Anorexia Nervosa may also bruise easily. Low blood pressure can also result and cause dizziness and fainting.

Hormonal Effects of Anorexia

One of the systems that is hardest hit is the hormonal system. Many derangements of hormones in the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis may occur. Changes in Gonadotropin-Releasing Hormone (GnRH), Leutenizing Hormone (LH), and Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) can result in the disappearance of menstruation (amenorrhea) in females. Sex hormones are also affected and another effect of Anorexia Nervosa is impotence in men and low sex drive in both males and females.
Yet another effect of anorexia is the inability of the body to regulate its temperature. Advanced Anorexics tend to be intolerant of cold temperatures. If a woman happens to become pregnant while their Anorexia is active, they are at an increased risk for having a miscarriage and if the baby does come to term successfully, of needing a C-section. Their baby is at an increased risk of having a low birth weight.
The nervous system is affected by Anorexia Nervosa and the effect is slow mentation, difficulty in focusing, and decreased attention. Changes in neurochemicals such as serotonin, norepinephrine, and dopamine may also occur, resulting in a variety of psychological effects