Again, there is no home remedy. Anyone exhibiting symptoms of anorexia nervosa (undereating, inducing vomiting, or abusing laxatives in an attempt to lose weighty) need medical and mental care. Some professionals are skilled at treating these difficult patients. If untreated, anorexia nervosa can lead to serious medical consequences or death.

Anorexia nervosa can result in life-threatening medical problems. The following signs and symptoms indicate need for emergency evaluation:

• Suicide is a leading cause of death among those suffering from anorexia nervosa. Anyone experiencing severe depression or having suicidal thoughts or remarks should be taken to the hospital's Emergency Department right once. If you suspect there is even a remote probability of suicide, call 911 for an ambulance.
• fainting
• Dizziness
• Confusion
• Shortness of breath
• Profuse vomiting or diarrhea
• Blood in vomit or diarrhea
• Chest pain
• Abdominal pain
• Weakness
• Often the doctor may choose to admit a person with anorexia to the hospital for a variety of medical or psychiatric reasons.

The person may develop medical problems ( cardiac, endocrine, electrolyte ) from starvation, vomiting, diuretic, or laxative abuse.

Outpatient treatment of anorexia nervosa is often unsuccessful. Someone with anorexia may need prolonged treatment (including cognitive, behavioral, drug , and counseling or some combination) in a structured hospital environment or special inpatient eating disorders program.

• family member or friend must recognize the possibility of a medical or psychiatric problem.
• Anorexia nervosa patients frequently resist inquiry and are exceedingly secretive, usually denying any problem and making reasons for weight loss or eating habits. If pressed on the subject, the person may become angry or withdrawn, further complicating attempts by others to help.
• If you think a friend or family member has a problem, get that person to a physician, even if she or he strongly resists cooperating.

Follow-up

Anorexia nervosa treatment might take years, during which time close monitoring by a specialist is required.