Kerala teenager dies of Anorexia nervosa: Symptoms, causes and risk factor of this extreme eating disorder

Anorexia nervosa is a serious eating disorder where people develop an intense fear of gaining weight and severely restrict their food intake. This leads to extreme weight loss, malnutrition, and life-threatening complications (Image: Canva)

The death of an 18-year-old girl from Thalassery, Kerala, due to anorexia, an eating disorder that left her malnourished and bedridden, has once again put the spotlight on the dangers of severe eating disorders and their devastating impact on youngsters, especially when left unchecked. Sree Nanda, a native of Meruvambai Thalassery, died on Sunday at Thalassery Co-operative Hospital, where she was being treated after surviving on only water for nearly six months.

The teenager’s struggle with anorexia began when she turned to online weight-loss portals, following strict and unhealthy dieting methods that severely restricted her food intake. Obsessed with losing weight, she ultimately resorted to consuming nothing but water for several months. Her body grew extremely weak, and by the time she was admitted to the hospital, she is said to have weighed only 24 kg.

Says Dr Vishal Khurana, Director of Gastroenterology, Metro Hospital, Faridabad, “Anorexia nervosa is a serious eating disorder where people develop an intense fear of gaining weight and severely restrict their food intake. This leads to extreme weight loss, malnutrition, and life-threatening complications, including heart problems, electrolyte imbalances, and organ failure. In many cases, psychological factors such as body image issues and social pressure play a significant role.”

Symptoms of anorexia nervosa: Symptoms of anorexia include fatigue, irritability, cold intolerance, and more. Reckless and harmful diets may lead to multiple health issues, such as extremely low body mass, heart problems, and muscle wasting (Image: Canva)

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Eating disorders like anorexia nervosa are far more than just a fixation on weight or appearance. They are severe mental health conditions that disrupt eating behaviours and can cause life-threatening complications. According to the National Institute of Mental Health, people with anorexia often develop obsessive behaviours related to food, including restrictive eating, excessive calorie counting, and purging.

Anorexia nervosa is classified under the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5), which sets criteria for diagnosing the disorder based on severity and status. While anorexia is often associated with being underweight, other eating disorders, such as avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder or binge eating disorder, share similar behaviourial traits but are distinct in their diagnostic criteria. Despite these differences, the impact of all eating disorders on an one’s health is profound, with significant mental, emotional, and physical consequences if left untreated.

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Symptoms of Anorexia:

According to the National Institute of Health (NIH), the symptoms of anorexia include fatigue, irritability, cold intolerance, and more. Reckless and harmful diets may lead to multiple health issues, such as extremely low body mass, heart problems, and muscle wasting.

Health risks of Anorexia:

The physical and psychological toll of anorexia is devastating, suggests NIH. This eating disorder can cause a range of complications, from cardiovascular issues like bradycardia and hypotension to gastrointestinal problems such as constipation and gastroparesis. Endocrine disruptions, including osteoporosis and hormonal imbalances, also affect those with anorexia. In severe cases, patients may experience neurological effects, including brain atrophy and peripheral neuropathy, and renal complications due to electrolyte imbalances.

Additionally, people suffering from anorexia often experience psychiatric symptoms such as depression, impaired concentration, and sleep disturbances. As in the teenager’s  case, the physical manifestations of the disorder can overwhelm the body’s ability to function, leading to death if not addressed early.

The death of the teenager is a reminder of the severity of anorexia, other eating disorders, and the hazards of blindly following diets available on online portals. “Everyone, especially youngsters, should refrain from blindly following online diet trends. One should always seek professional guidance, as extreme food restriction can have irreversible consequences on one’s health. Besides, encouraging healthy eating habits and body positivity among teenagers also helps to prevent such tragic incidents,” warns Dr Khurana.

Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.