Her face may also appear sunken, with protruding cheekbones, and she may look overly pale or undernourished.
Another known symptom of anorexia is the development of fine downy hair on the face and body, a condition known as lanugo. This is due to the body’s attempts to stay warm, despite a lack of nutrients and energy through eating and food. [6] X Trustworthy Source PubMed Central Journal archive from the U. S. National Institutes of Health Go to source
If a young girl develops amenorrhoea due to an eating disorder, such as anorexia, she is at risk of other health issues and should see a doctor as soon as possible.
As well, she may create a very restrictive diet for themselves, whether it is counting calories so she eats significantly less calories than her body requires or only eating low fat foods that she thinks will not lead to weight gain. These are considered “safe” foods, and may be used as an excuse to show she is eating when in fact she is eating a lot less than she should be to maintain a healthy diet. [9] X Trustworthy Source National Health Service (UK) Public healthcare system of the UK Go to source
She may also have a food ritual where she throws up after eating. Note if she goes to the bathroom after every meal and has issues with tooth decay or bad breath, which are both caused by the acid in vomit.
You should also note if she is ramping up her workouts, but her appetite has not increased or she is still not eating at all. This may be a sign her anorexia is getting worse and she is trying to maintain control over her exercise regime as a way to control her weight.
She may also practice “body checking”, where she repeatedly weighs herself, measures her waist size, and checks her body in the mirror. As well, many sufferers of anorexia will wear baggy clothing to hide their bodies or to avoid noticing their weight.
She may also take laxatives or diuretics, which are medications that helps to remove fluid from the body. In fact, these medications all have little effect on the calories she absorbs in food and will not affect her weight.
Her anorexia may start to affect her performance in school, her ability to socialize with her peers, and her ability to complete tasks at her job or at home. These shifts in behavior could be signs that she may be struggling with anorexia and needs your support and help in order to seek treatment for this illness.
