Eating disorders can cause specific physical changes besides drastic weight loss or gain, though some of these won't show up until years into an eating disorder. In those suffering from anorexia, these can include hair loss, brittle, easily breakable fingernails, anemia, and lanugo hair, a soft hair that grows all over the skin. If your child suffers from bulimia, you may notice tooth decay from exposure to stomach acid, or “chipmunk cheeks,” which occurs when constant purging causes the salivary glands to permanently expand.
These physical changes may be accompanied by changes in mood, as well, including irritability, depression and fatigue.
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