Side effects after anorexia?

Hey everyone,
My name is Alanna and I am recovering from Anorexia. I have been around a normal (minimum for height) weight for about 4 years, but I still find it hard to maintain energy and tend to get cold really easily. I haven't always been sensible about recovering and have had times when I have known and rectified these behaviours. I was wondering if anyone else has these feelings while they are recovering?

Hey,

The cold that you feel is probably because you have very little subcutaneous fat in your body and that could be a direct result of being Anorexic. The subcutaneous layer is basically a layer of insulation. Are you purposefully restricting fat-containing foods still?

Kevin.

Ya I think it's possible that just body weight explains the low body temperature. I haven't really been that restrictive of what I eat for the last year or so. I don't have a massive appetite, but I do eat well. I guess it could also be down to the fact that I'm just a little hyperactive so I find it harder to keep weight on as I'm always bounching around when I'm energetic.

Hmm, well, I was never Anorexic (I'm bulimic) but I did lose a lot of weight recently due to a medical condition and it was also very hard for me to put back an adequate amount of weight and stay warm. During those cold days, I felt so depressed too - I think the brain shuts-down somewhat. I'm now a bit heavier but still underweight for my height.

I don't know why you have low energy though... ...maybe you aren't actually eating enough; or not at the right times?

Take care,
Kevin.

I think you could be right about the body fat bit- I seem to have trouble maintaining weight and fat although I don't consciously try to limit these things. I do take Sertraline, an antidepressant which at the moment isn't particularly effective in allieviating depression and seems to make me want to eat less which is common of me with depression. Perhaps the depression has something to do with getting so cold, but I am also looking into a medication change. Thank you for your opinions

I hope you are looking for a medication change in consultation with your doctor? (Sorry, I had to ask). Some medications do make us less-active though - you're right. That would mean your body needs less energy. I still have not pout back enough fat for insulation and right now my feet are numb, despite having three pairs of socks on. It's not cold outside eitther... ...maybe just a few degrees celcius.

Kevin.

I can identify with you on the cold feet, I have two pairs of socks on. I have spoken to a doctor about medication changes and have been recommended to take half the dose I'm on, which I am doing because it is quite close to the end of term for study- I am a univeristy student- and can't afford as much time to nap. I am a little nervous about the change because of my exams, but will try to time it well. I think some of the low energy and heat loss is an anorexia side effect, but am not altogether sure.

That's a little strange because, from my experience, you should never alter a dose when there is an upcoming stressful event (such as exams). For example, I just finished my exams but am going to continue taking my anti-depressant right through to starting my new job in 2 weeks time (which will be a stressful event for me).

If you suffer an adverse reaction, your exams might suffer.

Kevin.

Hello! Have you had your blood iron level and hemoglobin, and blood pressure checked lately? Also, are you a vegetarian? Sertraline could cause low blood pressure in some people, which could make you feel cold and tired. If you're a vegetarian, you could not be getting enough iron and vitamin B's, which could also make you feel tired and cold even before you become full blown anemic.

I was a vegetarian, but I'm also a blood doner so I know I have a reasonable level of iron after taking iron supplements due to low levels- I can't maintain a fully vego diet unfortunately. I think the cold might just be because of the depression and more focus being put on it as a bad sensation.
Thanks for the replys everyone. Right now, I'm looking forward to finishing my exams, getting off my medication and taking a holidays