Understanding Anorexia through its 10 Symptoms

10. Hair and Skin Problems

People who have deprived their bodies of nutrition for extended periods of time often develop soft, downy body hair, almost a thin film of fur, on their arms and other parts of the body. This hair, known as lanugo, is a physical adaptation to the perilously low weight and loss of body fat seen in some people with anorexia. It has been associated with decreased activity of the reductase enzyme system, probably due to hypothyroidism. People with anorexia also usually have very dry, thin, paper-like skin. The lack of nutrition often leads to breakouts, rashes, and blemishes that are difficult to get rid of.