Anorexics do not accurately see, or perceive, their body s shape and weight. They fear weight gain, and they work hard to stay thin. In most cases anorexics actually lose weight. Weight loss usually occurs because of a severe reduction in caloric intake. Many anorexics also exercise to excess in an attempt to burn calories.
Some anorexics develop anorexia during their growing period by failing to gain weight properly.
Young women with this disorder sometimes fail to have their regular menstrual cycles. The person with a family member who has had an eating disorder is at higher risk for developing anorexia. Also, mood disorders are seen more frequently in families where someone has anorexia. Anorexia is primarily a disorder of females. Only rarely is it found in males.