The following symptoms are common in anorexia nervosa, except:
**Core Concept**
Anorexia nervosa is a psychological disorder characterized by a distorted body image and an intense fear of gaining weight, leading to restrictive eating habits and significant weight loss. The symptoms of anorexia nervosa can be physical, psychological, and behavioral.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The symptoms of anorexia nervosa typically include severe weight loss, amenorrhea (loss of menstrual cycle), bradycardia (slow heart rate), hypotension (low blood pressure), and lanugo (excessive hair growth). These symptoms occur due to malnutrition, dehydration, and electrolyte imbalances caused by restrictive eating and excessive exercise.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Osteoporosis is a common complication of anorexia nervosa, resulting from malnutrition and hormonal imbalances. It is characterized by a decrease in bone density and increased risk of fractures.
**Option B:** Constipation is a common gastrointestinal symptom in patients with anorexia nervosa, often due to decreased food intake and poor nutrient absorption. It can lead to abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in bowel habits.
**Option C:** Depression is a frequent comorbidity in patients with anorexia nervosa, often resulting from the psychological and physical consequences of the disorder. It can manifest as feelings of guilt, worthlessness, and hopelessness.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Anorexia nervosa has a high mortality rate, with a 5-year mortality rate of approximately 5.86% compared to 0.2% for the general population. This highlights the importance of early recognition and treatment of the disorder.
**Correct Answer:** D