The journey to recovery from anorexia nervosa can be challenging, but understanding what can happen as a result of this severe disorder, as well as the available treatment choices, is a significant step toward recovery. In this article, we look at how to help persons with anorexia nervosa get well. We’ll talk about numerous treatment choices, including therapy, nutritional counseling, hospitalization, and continuous support. These treatments aim to address the complex nature of anorexia and assist individuals on their path to recovery.
Health Complications of Anorexia
Anorexia doesn’t just affect how a person views themselves but it also messes with the body from the inside which can lead to complicated health issues.
Severe malnutrition and organ damage: When a person abstains from eating out of fear of gaining weight, their body is deprived of the necessary nutrients from food, which can lead to strain. In order to gather energy, the body consequently begins to break down its own tissues.
This may cause major health issues and long-term consequences by harming essential organs including the kidneys, heart, and bones.
Electrolyte imbalances and heart issues: Electrolytes are minerals found in the body that help control vital activities such as heart rhythm, neuron function, and muscle contraction. Electrolytes can be found in foods containing minerals such as sodium, potassium, and magnesium.
A poor intake of a balanced diet can create electrolyte imbalances, disrupting the heart’s regular rhythm and leading to potentially fatal problems such as arrhythmias or even heart failure.
Weakened immune system: The body will be malnourished if it is not fed a well-balanced diet. Malnutrition then affects the immune system, making it difficult to fight illnesses. This means that persons with anorexia are more likely to become sick and may take longer to recover from diseases. In severe circumstances, combining all of the health issues linked with anorexia might result in organ failure or cardiac arrest.
Anorexia Treatment
If someone has anorexia, it’s important that they receive treatment as quickly as possible. Their chances of recovering and avoiding further health issues are better the earlier they begin treatment.
Typically, treating anorexia requires a multidisciplinary team of medical professionals. This team consists of medical professionals or psychiatrists who assist with physical and mental health, nutritionists or dieticians who assist with food, and therapists who assist with emotions. In this manner, they can tackle all aspects of the condition, including the person’s diet, emotional state, and any health problems they may be experiencing.
Therapy: Anorexia nervosa is treated mostly with psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT). During treatment with cognitive behavioral therapy the patient communicates with the therapist. They collaborate to understand how the patient thinks, feels, and behaves. The therapist then helps the patient discover new methods to deal with difficult situations and feel better. Other therapeutic approaches, such as dialectical behavior therapy (DBT) or family-based therapy (FBT), may be used depending on the individual’s requirements and circumstances.
Nutritional counseling: Nutritionists or dieticians help anorexics in relearning healthy eating habits. They create meal plans, encourage them to eat more in order to achieve a healthy weight, and educate them on nutrition and portion sizes. The idea is to help them regain confidence in their eating habits and recognize when they are hungry or satisfied.
Inpatient hospitalization: If someone suffering from anorexia is extremely sick and outpatient treatment becomes ineffective, they may need hospitalization. In the hospital, they receive extensive medical and mental health care, as well as meal preparation assistance. This helps them become more stable and effective. Following that, the patient may progress to a lesser level of care, such as residential treatment or outpatient therapy, to continue their recovery.
Conclusion
This severe eating disorder can be extremely harmful to the body, resulting in organ damage, electrolyte imbalances, a weakened immune system, and, in rare cases, death. However, if you seek help early on and receive appropriate treatment, you can recover and have a better life. Talking to a therapist, learning about appropriate food, and even staying in the hospital are all vital steps toward recovery from anorexia, both physically and mentally.
