Anorexia nervosa - introductionObesity is one of the major illnesses of the western world; yet in the midst of plenty exists an illness which is just the reverse. Anorexia nervosa, or what has been called "The Twiggy Syndrome," is a disorder of affluent societies and is more common in wealthy, intelligent, high-achieving families. Although it has undoubtedly occurred before, this disorder was first described about 100 years ago. It usually affects young girls just out of puberty or in their late teens or early 20s. Occasionally, it can occur in girls before puberty, or even in young boys. In anorexia nervosa there is a disturbance of eating. Although the word anorexia means loss of appetite, there is really no loss of appetite but a refusal of food and a preoccupation with dieting and with weight. This disturbance of the control of food appears to be the primary problem and not a result of some other psychological disturbance. The girls affected are usually obsessive — compulsive in personality, perfectionist, conscientious, hard working and rigid in outlook. Many give an outward appearance of confidence but most are consumed with self-doubt and feelings of inferiority. They tend to withdraw and to be isolated from their peers. *2/71/1* General health «Mexican Pharmacy» |