Throughout most of modern medicine, low body weight is considered a key symptom or sign of anorexia. As research grew and new details emerged, the medical community recognized atypical anorexia.
People with atypical anorexia nervosa (AAN) meet all the same criteria as those with anorexia. The only difference is that people consider their body weight “normal” or higher. Atypical anorexia is increasingly prevalent. Recognizing its signs and symptoms is crucial. This awareness can safeguard the mental and physical health of our communities.
What is Atypical Anorexia?
Atypical anorexia and anorexia share the same criteria for diagnosis, which includes:
- Restricting calorie intake, leading to a significant reduction in body weight
- A strong fear of increasing body weight
- Deep concern with the size and shape of the body
To diagnose atypical anorexia, a person must have a body weight that is “normal” or higher. Because of this, someone with AAN may not match the stereotypes of what malnourishment “looks like.” However, that does not make this condition any less serious.
Atypical anorexia is an eating disorder that has been known by several names. This change happened as researchers learned more about it over the years. Before the DSM-5 was created, the condition used to be part of Eating Disorders Not Otherwise Specified (EDNOS). This update recognizes atypical anorexia as a distinct condition.
Symptoms of Atypical Anorexia
People with atypical anorexia may have different symptoms. These symptoms affect the entire person, just like many other mental health issues. They include:
- Physical symptoms: Vomiting or the use of laxatives, which can contribute to weight loss and cause complications such as electrolyte imbalances and gastrointestinal problems.
- Psychological symptoms: Individuals with this condition may feel depressed. They might become overly concerned about their body image. Mood swings can also occur.
- Behavioral symptoms: People with AAN may spend a lot of time exercising, as well as thinking and talking about body image.
Causes and Risk Factors of Atypical Anorexia
There isn’t one clear cause of atypical anorexia. Still, some factors can raise the risk of developing it. These factors include:
- Biological factors: People who have a history of eating disorders and mental health conditions in their families are at a higher risk. Those who are assigned female at birth are also at a higher risk for AAN.
- Psychological factors: Traits such as perfectionism and low self-esteem can play a role in this condition.
- Sociocultural factors: A person’s environment can impact the development of this condition. People who are exposed to certain body ideals or take part in weight-centric activities, like diving and wrestling, are at a greater risk.
Impact of Weight Stigma in Atypical Anorexia Nervosa
Today, weight loss meds, fad diets, and heavily edited ads create strong body image pressures. Most people feel these ideals daily. Society often glorifies thinness, and the medical community is not immune to weight stigma. Some people with larger bodies say their atypical anorexia symptoms were often ignored by doctors. They also mention that their weight loss was praised at first.
One damaging stigma is the belief that individuals with AAN are “not sick enough” to warrant treatment. This misunderstanding can lead people to overlook their symptoms. They might wait to get help, thinking they don’t match the typical image of someone with an eating disorder. However, this is a harmful and incorrect assumption.
There are also concerns with the name of this condition itself. By calling the condition “atypical,” it can further alienate those in need of help. Some people say anorexia nervosa and atypical anorexia are the same condition. They think these disorders happen at different points on the weight spectrum.
Diagnosis of Atypical Anorexia
Atypical anorexia can be hard to spot. If you or a loved one think you might have it, find a provider who knows this condition well.
To diagnose atypical anorexia, a provider will start with a medical history and check for symptoms. The medical team will also perform a series of blood tests to rule out any underlying physical complications. These tests can also help to understand the severity of the condition if an AAN diagnosis is made.
If no physical causes are identified, a provider will likely use the DSM’s criteria for evaluating atypical anorexia. If a diagnosis is made, a referral to a clinic or eating disorder specialist may follow.
Treatment Options
After a doctor makes a diagnosis, the healing process can begin. A good approach to treating this condition usually has three main parts: counseling or therapy, care for co-occurring issues, and nutritional counseling with medical oversight.
A therapist, psychologist, or counselor trained in eating disorders can help. They provide healthy coping skills to change unwanted and unrealistic thoughts. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) can be particularly effective for this. Family therapy is useful. It teaches family members how to spot signs and symptoms of eating disorders. It provides specific tools to help their loved one.
Addressing co-occurring conditions is also important when treating those with non-typical anorexia. Trauma, anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues often happen alongside eating disorders like AAN. Treating these conditions together gives patients the best chance for hope and healing.
A registered dietitian and physician can help those with AAN regain their physical health. This can include nutritional restoration, reintroducing foods or food groups that people with atypical anorexia may have been avoiding, and overall health monitoring.
Living with and Recovering from Atypical Anorexia
Recovery from atypical anorexia can take years, and early intervention improves outcomes. Creating a care network is important. It should include medical professionals, therapists, and supportive friends or family.
Self-care is also an essential part of recovery. Engaging in activities that promote joy and relaxation can improve overall well-being. Some activities to consider are:
- Journaling
- Picking up a creative hobby like coloring or knitting
- Gardening
- Swapping screen time for reading
When to Seek Help
There is never a wrong time to ask for help, just as it is never too early to seek professional treatment. If you or someone you care about has any AAN symptoms, feels down, or struggles at mealtimes, it’s time to get help.
If you or a person close to you is experiencing a mental health crisis, call or text 988 or visit: https://988lifeline.org/ for support.
Atypical Anorexia is More Common Than We Realize
Atypical anorexia nervosa is neither less common nor less severe than anorexia nervosa. Just like any mental health condition, this disorder does not discriminate and can impact anyone.
Seeking help is critical. Early intervention can prevent the condition from worsening and can hasten the recovery process.
You can find treatment providers with experience in atypical anorexia, despite its name. With the right help and support, recovery is possible.
