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Eating disorders are behavioral illnesses characterized by persistent, unhealthy patterns in an individual’s eating behaviors, related thoughts, and accompanying emotions. They often involve a preoccupation with food, calories, weight, or body shape (1), resulting in addiction-like behaviors, such as binge-eating, compulsive exercising, or abstaining from specific foods. Individuals with eating disorders may also purge, ridding their body of foods they’ve consumed by inducing vomiting or misusing laxatives. If untreated, these conditions may be life-threatening.
Although eating disorders can take many forms, three of the most commonly diagnosed conditions (2) are:
WEDNESDAY, Jan. 14, 2015 (HealthDay News) -- A drug used to treat attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) may also help treat binge-eating disorder, preliminary research suggests. At higher doses tested, the prescription drug Vyvanse curtailed the excessive food consumption that characterizes binge-eating disorder, researchers said. Vyvanse (lisdexamfetamine dimesylate) is solely approved in... Read More
MONDAY, Dec. 29, 2014 (HealthDay News) -- Anorexia is typically associated with women, but a new report finds that men -- especially men obsessed with muscularity -- can develop the eating disorder, too. The Canadian researchers noted that an estimated 10 percent or more of anorexia patients are thought... Read More
(HealthDay News) -- An eating disorder, such as binge eating, bulimia or emotional eating, can be dangerous at any age, particularly for a teenager. The American Academy of Family Physicians mentions these potential health consequences of an eating disorder: Weight gain or loss. Difficulty concentrating. Problems of the stomach, heart... Read More
What Are Eating Disorders? Eating disorders are behavioral illnesses characterized by persistent, unhealthy patterns in an individualâs eating behaviors, related thoughts, and accompanying emotions... Read More
What Are Eating Disorders? Eating disorders are behavioral illnesses characterized by persistent, unhealthy patterns in an individualâs eating behaviors, related thoughts, and accompanying emotions... Read More
What Are Eating Disorders? Eating disorders are behavioral illnesses characterized by persistent, unhealthy patterns in an individualâs eating behaviors, related thoughts, and accompanying emotions... Read More
What Are Eating Disorders? Eating disorders are behavioral illnesses characterized by persistent, unhealthy patterns in an individualâs eating behaviors, related thoughts, and accompanying emotions. They often involve a preoccupation... Read More
What Are Eating Disorders? Eating disorders are behavioral illnesses characterized by persistent, unhealthy patterns in an individualâs eating behaviors, related thoughts, and accompanying emotions. They often involve a preoccupation... Read More
What Are Eating Disorders? Eating disorders are behavioral illnesses characterized by persistent, unhealthy patterns in an individualâs eating behaviors, related thoughts, and accompanying emotions. They often involve a preoccupation... Read More
People of all ages and social demographics can develop eating disorders, and the causes vary. However, medical experts typically agree that these conditions result from a combination of factors (3), including:
Eating disorders also run in families. However, regardless of family history, these conditions may occur more frequently in individuals with the following risk factors (3):
Eating disorders may also result when individuals substitute food obsessions for healthy coping mechanisms to gain a feeling of control over their lives or to cope with unpleasant emotions. (3)
Although eating disorders often begin during the teen or young adult years, they can appear at any stage of life (4). And because eating disorders affect people of all sizes, shapes, and weights, it isn't always easy to tell if someone has one of these conditions. Although eating disorder symptoms may vary depending on the exact illness, common red flags (3) (5) include:
An individual who has an eating disorder may also experience medical symptoms, which can range from minor to life-threatening (5), including:
Self-diagnosing an eating disorder can be difficult. However, hotlines, such as the National Eating Disorders Helpline (6) connect individuals to resources that provide support and can help them find treatment. Anyone who thinks they may have an eating disorder may also seek help by contacting a physician or a mental health counselor.
The official path to a diagnosis generally depends on who is providing care. Medical doctors typically review symptoms, conduct a thorough physical exam, and order blood work. Mental health practitioners diagnose eating disorders through a psychological evaluation. However, all providers typically use the American Psychiatric Association’s Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM) to confirm a formal diagnosis. (7)
Eating disorders require a comprehensive treatment plan, which may include behavioral, psychological, behavioral, medical, and nutritional rehabilitation components. Psychological therapy often forms the core of the regimen (7), helping individuals normalize their eating habits and find healthier ways to handle stress. Depending on the severity of the condition, eating disorder treatment may involve inpatient, outpatient, or residential services. Individuals who can’t gain weight on their own or who have life-threatening medical issues may require hospitalization or a feeding tube.
As part of the recovery process, patients may need to keep a food journal, identify personal triggers, or learn to plan nutritious meals. Often, family members play an active role in healing, particularly for younger patients. In some cases, antidepressants help ease symptoms of coexisting mental health conditions, such as anxiety or depression. (7) Treatment may also address medical and dental issues caused by the eating disorder.
With complex treatment options and the potential for mixed messages from family and friends, coping with an eating disorder diagnosis can be challenging. A trusted doctor or mental health counselor can provide advice on healthy coping techniques. It's also helpful to prepare for medical and counseling appointments by:
Most importantly, remember that it is possible to resume healthy eating habits and a normal lifestyle with treatment.
Eating disorders are real, potentially life-threatening illnesses and not a lifestyle choice. Regardless of a patient’s stage of recovery, offering concern and support can help create an environment that’s conducive to healing. However, to help someone with an eating disorder, you may also want to:
It's important to understand that family and friends play a vital role in the healing process, so it's helpful to prioritize the patient's treatment to improve their chances for a successful recovery.
