Anorexia and Bulimia are common eating disorders among adolescents. They begin between 13-17 years old and can lead to a 15% or more drop in body weight. These disorders often start subtly, but they can quickly get out of control if not treated. Being aware of the signs of both anorexia and bulimia will help parents prevent their son or daughter from suffering from the condition over the long term.
Anorexia: The Signs
Anorexia nervosa is a condition characterized by a refusal to eat. The teenager may present with an obsession for being thin. Calling themselves fat, they can often be found using the scale. They will either avoid mealtimes, eat only tiny amounts or pretend to eat but really be throwing the food away. Most anorexics, even though they lack energy, also exercise excessively. They may choose going for a run over enjoying a social event with friends. Anorexics are often visibly depressed, easily chilled and regularly tired.
As anorexia progresses, a girl's periods may stop. Both sexes can grow lanugo, or a fine hair, all over the body. Their faces will be taut and bony yet they may still insist they are overweight. Their bones will become brittle and their blood pressure will drop. At its worst, anorexia can cause the body to enter a coma and die.
Bulimia: The Signs
Bulimia nervosa is a condition that involves an obsession with binging and purging. If the teenager is bulimic she will usually alternate between low-fat, diet foods and high calorie junk foods. After she eats the latter, she will purge by vomiting.
Some bulimics become addicted to laxatives as another method of purging. They may excuse themselves regularly to go to the washroom after meals. Bulimics use a lot of mouth wash or breath mints to cover up their purges. They will complain frequently about their body image.
As bulimia progresses, all social activities usually cease as binging and purging take priority. Their teeth will rot from the stomach acids. They may grow enlarged salivary glands in their cheeks. Their weight can seesaw rapidly. Stomach aches and kidney pain occur. If too much potassium is leached from their systems, heart attacks and death can result.
What can Parents do?
Anorexia and bulimia are frequently caused by low self esteem. Negative self imaging can be due to societal pressure, bullying, teasing, or other forms of abuse. These conditions can also be caused by the over emphasis placed on being thin if the child is a model, dancer or an athlete.
If the parent sees a combination of any of these signs, it's time to talk to their teen. The teen must understand their parents' concern. Then seek support. There are many successful therapy and counselling programs for adolescents and their families. Some involve retreats or camps during which teenagers learn about a healthy self image and nutritious eating options. Don't feel guilt or shame. Having an eating disorder is an unfortunately common part of North American society. If the parent catches the condition before it becomes a way of life, the teenager has a good chance of healing from their eating disorder.
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