Signs and Symptoms of Anorexia Nervosa

Common Signs of Anorexia

Individuals with anorexia nervosa are preoccupied with their body size and shape, and frequently:

• Weigh themselves
• Measure their body parts
• Check themselves in the mirror for “excess fat”

Symptoms of Anorexia

Common symptoms:

• Low body weight
• Self-starvation and excessive weight loss
• Skipped menstrual periods (amenorrhea)
• Fear of gaining weight
• Dissatisfaction with body size and shape
• Denial of the seriousness of the problem

 Psychiatric symptoms: 

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Irritability
• Obsessionality
• Preoccupation with food
• Substance use disorders

Need Help?

If you think you have an eating disorder, get help today. Learn more about treatment at the UPMC Center for Eating Disorders.