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Anorexia

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Dec 2, 2024.

What is anorexia?

Anorexia is an eating disorder that can lead to severe weight loss and an intense fear of weight gain. Anorexia may cause you to stop eating or to eat fewer calories than your body needs. The weight loss is not related to another medical condition. Anorexia is also called anorexia nervosa.

What increases my risk for anorexia?

Anorexia most often starts during teenage years. The following may increase your risk:

What are the signs and symptoms of anorexia?

How is anorexia diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider will check your height and weight and ask about recent weight changes. Tell your provider what, and how much, you eat. Your provider may ask if you exercise, what types of exercise, and how much. Your provider may ask about any prior treatment or family history of an eating disorder. You may have a hard time talking about your body. This is okay. Your provider may recommend you talk to an eating disorder specialist. The following tests can help your provider understand how anorexia may be affecting your body:

How is anorexia treated?

Treatment is meant to help you develop a healthy relationship with food. You may also need treatment for health problems caused by anorexia. Treatment may take place in a hospital or clinic. Your providers will work with you to help you make small, manageable changes. Your family members may also be involved in treatment to help you.

Treatment options

The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

View more treatment options

What can I do to care for myself?

Where can I get support and more information?

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:

When should I seek immediate care?

When should I call my doctor?

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.