How is the pulse rate typically characterized in individuals with anorexia nervosa?

In individuals with anorexia nervosa, the pulse rate is typically characterized as bradycardic. This condition is marked by a significantly low heart rate, which can occur due to several physiological changes brought on by severe malnutrition and weight loss that are common in anorexia nervosa. As the body is deprived of essential nutrients and calories, the heart rate can diminish as a response to conserve energy and increase the efficiency of the cardiac output.

Additionally, bradycardia can be indicative of electrolyte imbalances, particularly hypokalemia, which is often seen in these patients due to inadequate food intake and potentially purging behaviors. The body’s overall metabolic rate slows down, contributing further to a decrease in heart rate. Monitoring for bradycardia is crucial, as it can lead to more severe cardiovascular complications if not addressed.

Normal heart rates would not reflect the physiological changes present in those with anorexia nervosa, and tachycardia, or an increased heart rate, is usually not observed in this context. Irregular pulse rates may occur, but they are less characteristic than bradycardia in this specific population.