Anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa are both eating disorders that have severe consequences on an individual's physical and mental health. These disorders primarily affect young women but can also occur in men.

Anorexia Nervosa:
Anorexia nervosa is characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight and a distorted body image. Individuals with anorexia often have an extremely low body weight and restrict their food intake to an unhealthy extent. Some key features of anorexia nervosa include:

1. Restrictive eating: People with anorexia severely limit their food intake, often through extreme dieting, fasting, or excessive exercise.
2. Intense fear of gaining weight: They have an intense fear of gaining weight or becoming overweight, even if they are already underweight.
3. Distorted body image: Individuals with anorexia have a distorted perception of their own body shape and weight. They may perceive themselves as overweight, even when they are dangerously thin.
4. Physical consequences: Anorexia can lead to a range of physical health problems, such as malnutrition, electrolyte imbalances, osteoporosis, and fertility issues.
5. Psychological consequences: Anorexia nervosa is associated with psychological problems like depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive tendencies, and social withdrawal.

Bulimia Nervosa:
Bulimia nervosa is characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors to prevent weight gain. Some key features of bulimia nervosa include:

1. Binge eating: People with bulimia engage in episodes of rapid and excessive food consumption, often feeling a loss of control during these episodes.
2. Compensatory behaviors: To compensate for the binge eating, individuals may engage in self-induced vomiting, misuse of laxatives or diuretics, excessive exercise, or fasting.
3. Shame and guilt: After a binge episode, individuals with bulimia often experience intense feelings of shame, guilt, and self-disgust.
4. Physical consequences: Bulimia can lead to various physical health issues, including electrolyte imbalances, dental problems, gastrointestinal issues, and hormonal imbalances.
5. Psychological consequences: Bulimia nervosa is associated with psychological problems such as depression, anxiety, low self-esteem, and a preoccupation with body shape and weight.

In conclusion, anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa are serious eating disorders that can have severe physical and psychological consequences. It is essential to seek professional help for individuals struggling with these disorders to address their underlying issues and promote recovery.