Anorexia nervosa, more commonly known as just anorexia, is a severe mental condition, as well as a possibly deadly eating disorder. It is characterized by a distorted view of weight, unusually low body weight, and an extreme fear of weight gain. This condition frequently starts during the teen years or young adulthood, however, it could start during the preteen years. It is among the top 3 chronic illnesses in teens. Although men and women can both develop anorexia, it is far more likely in women. Practically 1 out of every 100 American females will suffer from anorexia at some point.
Information. Those suffering from anorexia are obsessed with controlling their shape and weight and will go to extremes to achieve their goals, greatly inconveniencing their lives. It is common for individuals suffering from anorexia to drastically restrict their food intake. They might control the number of calories they consume by misusing laxatives, diuretics or enemas, diet aids, or by forcing themselves to throw up. They might also engage in excessive exercise for the sake of losing weight. For the person suffering from anorexia, the fear of weight gain remains, regardless of how much weight is lost.
