Signs and Symptoms


Anorexia Nervosa
Behavioral signs: Eating tiny portions, refusing to eat, not being hungry Avoiding fat, sugar and meat Intense fear of being or becoming fat Feeling fat even though thin Unusual eating habits Exercising too much Depression and low self-esteem Withdrawing from family or friends Perfectionism Feeling “huge” after eating small portion and possibly purging	Physical symptoms: Unhealthy weight loss (more than 15% of body weight or much weight loss in a short span of time) Stomachaches, headaches, dizziness Feeling cold much of the time Constipation Loss of muscles Loss of menstrual periods Weakening of bones Heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature below normal Brittle hair and nails, hair loss


Bulimia Nervosa
Behavioral signs: Binge eating followed by purging Unusual food choices or cravings Vomiting, laxative use, or diuretic use Disappearing after eating, often to bathroom Excessive exercise to “get rid of” calories Shame or guilt after eating Feeling out of control about eating Eating secretly or hiding food Obsession about appearance and body Depression and low self-esteem Poor self-control in areas other than eating	Physical symptoms: Frequent changes in weight Stomach pain Muscle weakness, tiredness Constipation or diarrhea Loss of dental enamel Irregular menstrual periods Enlargement of cheeks and neck Changes in blood chemistry Sore throat, swollen glands

Anorexia Nervosa