Which is a cardiovascular complication of anorexia nervosa?

Which is a cardiovascular complication of anorexia nervosa?

• A. Hyperkalemia
• B. Hyperglycemia
• C. Arrhythmias
• D. Hypertension

Answer: (C)

Anorexia nervosa affects the heart by causing malnutrition that weakens the heart muscle and disrupts electrolyte balance. This creates a vulnerability in the heart’s electrical system, making arrhythmias the major cardiovascular complication. Electrolyte disturbances, especially low potassium and low magnesium from vomiting, laxatives, or diuretics, disrupt cardiac conduction and can slow the heart or trigger abnormal rhythms. QT interval prolongation and bradycardia seen in malnutrition further increase the risk of dangerous rhythms. While hyperkalemia, hyperglycemia, or hypertension can occur in other conditions, they are not typical cardiovascular issues tied to anorexia nervosa. So the best way this condition affects the heart is through arrhythmias arising from electrolyte and metabolic disturbances.

Anorexia nervosa affects the heart by causing malnutrition that weakens the heart muscle and disrupts electrolyte balance. This creates a vulnerability in the heart’s electrical system, making arrhythmias the major cardiovascular complication. Electrolyte disturbances, especially low potassium and low magnesium from vomiting, laxatives, or diuretics, disrupt cardiac conduction and can slow the heart or trigger abnormal rhythms. QT interval prolongation and bradycardia seen in malnutrition further increase the risk of dangerous rhythms. While hyperkalemia, hyperglycemia, or hypertension can occur in other conditions, they are not typical cardiovascular issues tied to anorexia nervosa. So the best way this condition affects the heart is through arrhythmias arising from electrolyte and metabolic disturbances.