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St. Joseph’s Adolescent Medicine Clinic in Phoenix, Arizona is specialized in the treatment of anorexia nervosa in teenagers.
Anorexia nervosa, sometimes referred to as anorexia, is an eating disorder characterized by low body weight (less than 85 percent of normal weight for height and age), a distorted body image, amenorrhea (the absence of at least three consecutive menstrual cycles when otherwise expected to occur in women) and an intense fear of gaining weight.
The cause of anorexia nervosa is not known. Anorexia usually begins as an innocent dieting behavior for teens but gradually progresses to extreme and unhealthy weight loss. Possible contributors to anorexia include social attitudes toward body appearance, family influences, genetics and neuro-chemical developmental factors.
Symptoms may include:
Physical symptoms may include:
Treatment for anorexia at St. Joseph’s Adolescent Medicine Clinic uses a team approach. Our adolescent medicine physician works with a counselor and dietitian for the best possible outcome.
Treatment is based on an evaluation of the adolescent and their family. If the child with anorexia is also depressed, medication may be helpful. Parents also play a very important role in the treatment process by providing support. If medical complications related to weight loss and malnutrition arise, hospitalization at St. Joseph’s may be required.
To learn more about how St. Joseph’s Adolescent Medicine Clinic can help your teen with anorexia, call (602) 406-7564.