The progressive symptoms of Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia are based on the most often repeated experiences of those with Anorexia and Bulimia. When a person with Anorexia Nervosa becomes bulimic, that person will experience symptoms characteristic of both eating disorders. While every symptom does not occur in every case or in precisely the same order, it does portray a typical progression pattern. While Anorexia and Bulimia are most frequently associated with women, men also acquire the disease. The goals, treatment and resultant behavior changes in recovery are similar for both eating disorders.
Early Symptoms of Anorexia Nervosa
Low self-esteem
Misperceptions of hunger, satiety & other bodily functions
Feelings of lack of control
Distorted body image
Middle Stage Symptoms of Anorexia Nervosa
Over achiever
Compliant
Anxiety
Menstrual cycle stops (Amenorrhea)
Progressive preoccupation with food & eating
Isolation from family & friends
Perfectionist behavior
Compulsive behavior
Eat alone
Fights with family
Overeating (may begin to cook & control family eating)
Fatigue
Increased facial & body hair
Decreased scalp hair
Crucial Stage Symptoms of Anorexia Nervosa
Thin, dry scalp
Emaciated appearance (loss of 25% or more of total body weight)
Feeling of control over body
Rigid
Depression
Apathy
Fear of food
Fear of gaining weight
Malnutrition
Mood swings
Tyrannical
Diminished capacity to think
Sensitivity to cold
Electrolyte imbalance
Weakness
Lassitude cardi arrest
Denial of a problem
Joint pain
Difficulty walking & sitting
Sleep disturbance
Fear of food & gaining weight
Early Symptoms of Bulimia
Low self-esteem
Feeling that self worth is dependent on low weight
Dependent on opposites for approval
Normal weight
Constant concern with weight & body image
Experimentation with vomiting, laxatives & diuretics
Poor impulsive control
Middle Stage Symptoms of Bulimia
Fear of bingeing
Eating getting out of control
Embarrassment
Anxiety
Depression
Self indulgent behavior
Eats alone
Preoccupation with eating & food
Tiredness
Apathy
Irritability
Gastrointestinal disorders
Elimination of normal activities
Anemia
Social isolation
Distancing friends & family
Dishonesty
Lying
Stealing food / money
Tooth damage
Gum disease
Bingeing
High carbohydrate food
Crucial Stage Symptoms of Bulimia
Drugs & alcohol abuse
Laxative & diuretic abuse
Mood swings
Chronic sore throat
Difficulties in breathing or swallowing
Hypokalemia (abnormally low potassium)
Electrolyte imbalance
General ill health
Constant physical problems
Possible rupture of the heart
Possible rupture of the esophagus
Peritonitis
Severe dehydration
Irregular heart rhythms
Suicidal tendencies or attempts
Rehabilitation & Recovery for both Anorexia Nervosa & Bulimia
A word of caution, unlike drug and alcohol detox and recovery that can be achieved in a relatively short period of time, recovery time from Anorexia and Bulimia takes from 1 to 3 years
