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Anorexia: The Signs

Anorexia nervosa is a condition characterized by a refusal to eat. The teenager may present with an obsession for being thin. Calling themselves fat, they can often be found using the scale. They will either avoid mealtimes, eat only tiny amounts or pretend to eat but really be throwing the food away. Most anorexics, even though they lack energy, also exercise excessively. They may choose going for a run over enjoying a social event with friends. Anorexics are often visibly depressed, easily chilled and regularly tired.

As anorexia progresses, a girl's periods may stop. Both sexes can grow lanugo, or a fine hair, all over the body. Their faces will be taut and bony yet they may still insist they are overweight. Their bones will become brittle and their blood pressure will drop. At its worst, anorexia can cause the body to enter a coma and die.
Bulimia: The Signs

Bulimia nervosa is a condition that involves an obsession with binging and purging. If the teenager is bulimic she will usually alternate between low-fat, diet foods and high calorie junk foods. After she eats the latter, she will purge by vomiting.

Some bulimics become addicted to laxatives as another method of purging. They may excuse themselves regularly to go to the washroom after meals. Bulimics use a lot of mouth wash or breath mints to cover up their purges. They will complain frequently about their body image.

Read more: "Anorexia and Bulimia in Teenagers: Being Aware of the Signs of Eating Disorders in Teens | Suite101.com" - http://teen-health.suite101.com/article.cfm/anorexia_and_bulimia_in_teenagers#ixzz0FYOqvMN6&A