Symptoms can be different for each person, but common signs include:
- Very low body weight (weighing much less than is healthy)
- Strong fear of gaining weight, even while losing weight
- Seeing themselves as overweight, even when very thin
- Refusing to keep a normal body weight
- Girls missing three periods in a row (without another reason)
- Exercising too much to lose weight
- Saying they’re not hungry, even when they are
- Spending a lot of time thinking about or preparing food
- Strange or unusual eating habits
Common Physical Symptoms of Anorexia
These symptoms often happen because the body isn’t getting enough food. Each child may have different symptoms. Common signs include:
- Dry skin that stays pinched when you let it go
- Dehydration (not enough water in the body)
- Stomach pain
- Constipation (trouble going to the bathroom)
- Feeling very tired or low on energy
- Feeling dizzy
- Being cold often
- Extreme thinness
- Growing soft, fine hair on the body (called lanugo)
- Yellow skin
Other Signs of Anorexia
People with anorexia may also:
- Stay away from friends and family
- Be easily upset or moody
- Feel sad or depressed
These signs can also look like other health or mental problems. Always talk to your child’s doctor to get the right diagnosis.
