Complications and prognosis of anorexia nervosa.
Complications of anorexia nervosa can be very serious and may  involve a dangerous medical
situation
which requires hospitalization. The most common consequences of anorexia nervosa are described bellow.
 Severe dehydration potentially may result in cardiovascular shock. In fact, heart attack is one of the most common causes of death in individuals suffering from eating disorders.
Electrolyte imbalance such as potassium deficiency, otherwise called hypokalemia, can lead to abnormally high blood pressure levels, impaired heart performance, bone fragility, dry skin, acne and depression.
Palpitations or persistent cardiac arrhythmias related to the loss of cardiac muscle and electrolyte imbalance.
Severe malnutrition results in excessive loss of body weight, vitamin and mineral deficiencies, anemia and waste of bone and muscle tissue.
Thyroid gland hormonal deficiencies which can lead to cold intolerance, impaired memory, sluggish reflexes, constipation, fatigue, depression, reduced metabolism, decreased sexual activity, abnormal menstrual cycles bridle fingernails and hair loss.
Decrease in rates of white blood cells formation that leads to impaired immunity which, in turn, makes the individual prone to fungal, bacterial or viral infections.
Bloating or edema may be caused by inappropriate function of the gastrointestinal track or water retention respectively.
Serotonin and dopamine deficiencies can cause significant neurological dysfunctions, since the two chemicals are very important neurotransmitters.
Low calcium levels may occur which, in turn, result in skeletal disorders, such as osteoporosis. This condition is characterized by gradual loss of bone tissue and bone fragility.
Dental cavities or tooth erosions may be present due to self-induced vomiting and associated with low calcium blood levels.
Seizures related to fluid loss due to excessive diarrhea or vomiting.
Depression can be an aftermath of anorexia nervosa and may lead to suicidal actions.
Prognosis of anorexia nervosa.
Anorexia nervosa is a serious and potentially fatal medical condition. The disease has the highest death rate of any psychiatric illness. According to studies, the disorder leads to death in 10% of the cases due to bodily collapse. The Eating Disorders Association in the UK estimates that mortality rate related to anorexia nervosa is 18%. The suicidal behavior, which accompanies anorexia nervosa, in many cases, increases the fatality percentage. Statistics indicate that 25% of anorectic patients commit suicide attempts and nearly 50% of the deaths classified as consequences of anorexia nervosa are due to suicides. The most reliable and effective therapeutic programs have no more than 67% success rate in restoring normal weight and relapse is quite common.
Females, who develop anorexia nervosa at an early age, have a better chance of complete recovery. Most people, who have experienced anorexia nervosa, will continue to prefer a lower body weight and be preoccupied with food and calories. Weight management may be difficult and a long-term treatment may be necessary to help the person to maintain a healthy body weight.
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