The starvation causes their body functions to slow down. Menstruation may stop. Breathing, pulse and blood pressure rates drop. The thyroid gland slows down. Nail and hair become brittle, and the skin dries and yellows.
Constipation is also common.
In severe cases, the bones thin out and heart and kidney problems develop that can lead to death. Treatment may involve trying to normalize eating behavior and change atttudes about food, eating, and body size. It may also include medication, psycotherapy, behavior modification, and nutrition counseling. For more information on anerorexia nervosa, contact a health care professional. Use of the information and materials on this server is subject to the terms and conditions contained on the Legal Information page.