What Causes Anorexia?

Like many psychological disorders, there is no definitive, straightforward root cause of anorexia. Studies suggest there’s a high likelihood of a genetic predisposition to anorexia. Multiple studies suggest people with a parent or sibling who suffer from an eating disorder are much more likely to develop an eating disorder themselves. There are even suspected gene variants that doctors believe are responsible for the regulation of mood, appetite and impulse control.

Genetics is not necessarily the only contributing factor to consider. Societal factors, especially the way in which young people use social media, are suspected to play a significant role in the development of eating disorders. Specifically, the perceived cultural value of thinness, often emphasized in media and fashion, place increased pressure on people, particularly young women, to maintain an unrealistic body image.

Families can also play a role, particularly when parents place an excessive emphasis on perfectionism, control and achievement. This can inadvertently lead to conditions that make the development of anorexia more likely.

Individuals who do develop anorexia are more likely to exhibit certain personality characteristics, including perfectionism, obsessive-compulsive tendencies and high levels of anxiety.

Trauma may also play a role in the condition, such as bullying, abuse or jarring life transitions. Traumatic events have the potential to trigger anorexia in an individual who is genetically predisposed to the condition.

What Are the Warning Signs of Anorexia?

Family members concerned that someone close to them may be suffering from anorexia should watch for warning signs. Signs of anorexia may include:

• Severe weight loss or an inability to maintain a healthy weight
• Obsessive calorie counting or restricting food intake
• Fear of gaining weight, even when underweight
• Distorted body image, or seeing oneself as overweight when looking in the mirror
• Making excuses to avoid eating
• Excessive exercise to burn calories
• Avoidance of social situations involving food
• Physical symptoms such as fatigue, dizziness, thinning hair, dry skin and feeling cold

How Anorexia Differs From Other Eating Disorders

• Bulimia nervosa involves cycles of binge eating followed by purging, either through vomiting or excessive exercise, to avoid weight gain.
• People suffering from binge eating disorders (BED) may have episodes of binge eating without the purging behaviors of bulimia.

Anorexia doesn’t involve cycles of overeating or purging, but instead typically involves only extreme food restrictions.

Consequences of Anorexia

People with anorexia face a variety of health complications, most related to malnutrition. This can range from heart problems, anemia and low blood pressure to brittle bones, electrolyte imbalances and organ failure. In addition to the life-threatening risks associated with malnutrition, women may also experience hormonal imbalances that lead to amenorrhea, or the loss of menstrual periods.

The avoidance of eating is often accompanied by anxiety, depression and other obsessive-compulsive behaviors. Anorexia sufferers may also isolate themselves due to their unrealistic body image perceptions, which can further stress their mental health.

Anorexia Treatment and Management Strategies

Patients with anorexia are often prescribed a multi-disciplinary therapeutic approach that combines cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT), family-based therapy (FBT), and interpersonal therapy (IPT) with nutritional counseling and medication. In extreme cases, people diagnosed with anorexia may be placed in inpatient treatment centers, particularly if their physical health is in danger due to malnutrition and dehydration.

CBT is the most common therapeutic approach and typically focuses on changing unhealthy thought patterns and behaviors related to body image, food and weight.

Adolescents are more likely to benefit from FBT involving the family, as it is key for parents to take an active role in their child’s recovery and normalizing eating behaviors. IPT may be used to improve relationships and communications with others.

Those recovering from anorexia often benefit from support groups when in long-term recovery. Participation in these groups can greatly decrease the risk of relapse.

Are You Concerned That a Family Member May Be Suffering From an Eating Disorder Like Anorexia?

Houston parents, siblings and family members who are worried a loved one is suffering from an eating disorder, or those seeking help for their own suspected eating disorder, should consider contacting the behavioral health professionals at St. Hope Healthcare. We have extensive experience diagnosing anorexia and other disordered eating conditions and can provide comprehensive treatment plans to help people regain a healthy body image and relationship with food.

Call (713) 778-1300 to schedule a consultation today.