Anorexia Neurogenic

Before moving on to the description of anorexia neurogenic, it is necessary to clarify what kind of disease it is. Anorexia is an eating disorder in which a person restricts food in an attempt to lose weight. In the case of anorexia nervosa, the cause of this behavior is not related to physiological problems of the gastrointestinal tract, but is related to mental problems.

Neurogenic anorexia, as a rule, is a form of prolonged reactive state during puberty. In young children, the causes of this disease may be posthypoxic encephalopathy, a neuropathic form of intrauterine malnutrition, fear, improper or force-feeding, isolation of the child and other problems.

Anorexia nervosa can be caused by disorders in the hypothalamic-pituitary system, or be the onset of schizophrenia or another mental illness. In addition, the development of anorexia neurogenic may be influenced by sociocultural factors, such as the fashion for slimness and the ideal of beauty.

The clinical picture of anorexia nervosa can manifest itself differently depending on the age of the patient. Young children are characterized by refusal to eat, often accompanied by vomiting. Older children (more often girls) also refuse food in order to lose weight; they gradually give up fatty foods, and then protein foods, and switch to eating small amounts of carbohydrates: sweets, ice cream, fruits. Other weight loss techniques are often observed: intense physical exercise, emetics and cleansing agents, etc. All this ultimately leads to exhaustion, general weakness, anemia, constipation, and amenorrhea in girls.

To establish a diagnosis of anorexia nervosa, it is necessary to conduct an anamnesis and clinical examination. Differential diagnosis includes anemia, amenorrhea, adrenal insufficiency, diseases of the gastrointestinal tract, and habitual vomiting.

Treatment for anorexia neuropathy depends on its causes and severity. In young children, it is necessary to eliminate the cause of stress and introduce a gentle diet. Sometimes they resort to sedatives (valerian, bromine preparations, etc.). Older children should undergo comprehensive treatment, including psychotherapy, psychopharmacotherapy, diet and exercise. It is important to remember that treatment of anorexia neuropathy can take a long time and requires patience and participation on the part of the patient and his loved ones. In some cases, hospitalization may be required for observation and treatment in a hospital setting.

In general, anorexia nervosa is a serious mental illness that requires comprehensive treatment and support for the patient from relatives and specialists. Early diagnosis and treatment can help avoid serious consequences for the patient's health and life.