Introduction
Eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa, are psychological conditions marked by extreme disturbances in eating behavior. Many individuals with eating disorders keep their struggles secret. These disorders often begin during the late teens or early adulthood.
Overview and Facts
Eating disorders were once believed to primarily affect females, but research shows that 10-15% of individuals with eating disorders are male.
According to the American Psychiatric Association, as many as 1 in 100 females may develop anorexia nervosa. People with anorexia fear gaining weight and often weigh at least 15% below their ideal body weight. They tend to define their self-worth primarily based on their body image.
Symptoms
Common symptoms of eating disorders include:
A distorted body image
Skipping meals or restrictive eating
Unusual eating habits (e.g., extreme portion control)
Frequent weighing
Extreme weight changes (either loss or fluctuation)
Insomnia or difficulty sleeping
Constipation
Dry or irritated skin
Dental cavities or erosion of tooth enamel
Hair loss or brittle nails
Excessive exercise or hyperactivity
People with eating disorders may be in denial about the severity of the issue. They may also experience mood swings, anxiety, or depression. Social withdrawal and heightened sensitivity to criticism are common. Unfortunately, family members may not recognize these signs because the person tends to keep them hidden, just as they might hide emotional issues like trauma, insecurities, or low self-esteem that could trigger the disorder.
Consult a Doctor if:
You suspect you have symptoms of an eating disorder.
A family member or friend is showing signs of an eating disorder. Talk to them about your concerns.
The sooner you seek medical and psychological treatment, the sooner you can start the recovery process.
Causes and Risk Factors
There is no single cause for eating disorders. Experts suggest that a combination of factors, such as family dynamics, psychological problems, low self-esteem, and genetic influences, can contribute to the development of these disorders.
Research has also linked anorexia with traits like perfectionism, a fear of making mistakes, high personal standards, and excessive parental expectations and criticism.
Tests and Diagnosis
To diagnose an eating disorder, it’s important to consult a mental health professional who will use scientific criteria to assess the presence of the disorder.
The doctor will conduct a physical examination and ask questions about your symptoms, including emotional health. This is called a mental health assessment.
Blood or urine tests may be performed to rule out other conditions that could be affecting your health.
Treatment
Treatment for eating disorders generally involves a combination of:
Psychotherapy/Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT): This helps by identifying and replacing inaccurate thoughts to change behaviors and emotional states.
Medication: Antidepressants may be prescribed to help manage underlying depression or anxiety.
Nutritional guidance and medical monitoring: Ensuring proper nutrition and tracking physical health are essential aspects of recovery.
Without proper treatment, eating disorders can lead to severe physical and psychological consequences, and in some cases, can be life-threatening.
Sources and Links
www.idraac.org
www.webmd.com