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Eating disorders are complex psychiatric
conditions arising from a variety of factors, including psychological,
interpersonal, biological and environmental causes. They generally
manifest in eating habits, weight management practices and attitudes
about weight and body shape that significantly interfere with work,
school, family and social activities. Problems commonly associated with
eating disorders include depression, anxiety, social isolation, shame
and health issues.
There are various types and intensities of eating
disorders; however, two disorders are of particular concern, Anorexia
Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa.
Major defining characteristics of Anorexia Nervosa
are:
- An intense and irrational fear of gaining
weight;
- Misperception of body weight and
- Defiant refusal to maintain a healthy weight.
Major defining characteristics of Bulimia Nervosa
are:
- Repeated episodes of binging and purging;
- Recurrent, inappropriate behavior to prevent
weight gain, such as self-induced vomiting, laxative and diuretic
misuse, fasting or excessive exercise; and
- Self-esteem unduly influenced by weight and body
shape.
If you are experiencing any of the following
warning signs, please see your Primary Care Physician (PCP) for a
professional evaluation. Similarly, if you suspect that a family member
or friend could be at risk for an eating disorder, urge them to see a
physician.
- A marked increase or decrease in weight, not
related to a medical condition;
- The development of abnormal eating habits, such
as severe dieting, preference for unusual foods, withdrawn or
ritualized behavior at mealtime or secretive binging;
- An intense pre-occupation with body weight and
image;
- Compulsive or excessive exercising;
- Self-induced vomiting, periods of fasting, or
laxative, diet pill or diuretic abuse;
- Feelings of isolation, depression or
irritability.
Unfortunately, symptoms inevitably worsen and may
become life-threatening if not addressed by professional clinicians.
Treatment options may include medication, individual/group/family
psychotherapy, nutrition education, monitoring of potential medical
complications and support groups. The good news is that eating disorders
are treatable. See your PCP if you think you may have an eating
disorder.
References:
American Psychiatric Association: Diagnostic and Statistical Manual
of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition. Washington, DC, American
Psychiatric Association, 1994.
Eating Disorders Awareness and Prevention Internet site: http://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org.
National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders
Internet site: http://www.anad.org.
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