Anorexia nervosa: a serious but treatable illness
एनोरेक्सिया नर्वोसा
Anorexia nervosa involves restricting food so much that weight becomes dangerously low, driven by an intense fear of gaining weight.
It affects both girls and boys, and adults too. It can harm the heart, bones and hormones, so early treatment matters.
Medically reviewed by Dr. Kuldeep Budania, MBBS, MD Psychiatry
Common symptoms
- Marked weight loss or failure to gain weight in a growing child
- Fear of weight gain; seeing oneself as fat despite being thin
- Skipping meals, rigid food rules, excessive exercise
- Missed periods, dizziness, feeling cold, hair loss
Causes
- Genetic vulnerability and perfectionistic, anxious temperament
- Dieting, body-image pressure and social media ideals
Risk factors
- Adolescence, sports or careers focused on weight
- Anxiety, OCD or depression
How it is diagnosed
- Weight, height, BMI and growth charts
- Medical tests: heart rate, blood pressure, ECG, electrolytes, blood counts
- Assessment of mood, anxiety and safety
Classification: ICD-10 F50.0 · ICD-11 6B80
Treatment options
- 1Medical stabilisation; hospital care if weight or vital signs are dangerously low
- 2Supervised nutritional rehabilitation with a dietitian
- 3Treating co-existing depression, anxiety or OCD
Psychotherapy and counselling
- Family-based treatment for teenagers
- CBT for eating disorders (CBT-E) for adults
Guidance for family
- Avoid comments on weight, shape or appearance — including praise for weight loss
- Eat regular family meals together where possible; keep mealtimes calm
- Do not argue about food; express concern about health and mood instead
- Parents are part of the treatment team, especially for teenagers
When to see a psychiatrist
- Fainting, chest pain, very slow pulse — emergency
- Rapid weight loss or stopping periods
Thoughts of self-harm or a medical emergency? Call Tele-MANAS 14416 (24×7, free) or 112.
Frequently asked questions
Is it just dieting?
No. Anorexia is a mental illness with serious physical effects; willpower alone does not fix it.
Can boys get anorexia?
Yes, though it is often missed in boys and men.
Should the family join the consultation?
Yes, family input is very helpful — especially for children, teenagers, eating disorders and memory problems. Part of the session can also be private.
Help is available — confidential, in Hindi or English.
Private video consultation from anywhere in India with an Ajmer-based psychiatrist. Psychiatry consultation ₹500.
This page is for education and does not replace a personal consultation. Do not start or stop any medicine without a doctor's advice.