Symptoms of Eating Disorders
The most common eating disorders and symptoms that afflict people are bulimia, anorexia, binge eating with purging and binge eating without purging. Each is very similar
in that the person who performs the act suffers from poor body image. All are
very serious and can lead to death or serious bodily harm. All are serious
diseases that can cause great harm to both the body and the mind. It is
important to know the signs and symptoms of eating disorders and get help for
yourself or someone you love as soon as possible.
Eating disorders symptoms may include:
- Binge eating disorder symptoms - People with this recently recognized disorder have
frequent episodes of compulsive overeating, but unlike those with bulimia,
they do not purge their bodies of food (NIMH, 2002). During these food
binges, they often eat alone and very quickly, regardless of whether they
feel hungry or full. They often feel shame or guilt over their actions.
Unlike anorexia and bulimia, binge-eating disorder occurs almost as often in
men as in women (National Eating Disorders Association, 2002).
- Anorexia nervosa symptoms - People who have anorexia develop unusual
eating habits such as avoiding food and meals, picking out a few foods and
eating them in small amounts, weighing their food, and counting the calories
of everything they eat. Also, they may exercise excessively.
- Bulimia nervosa symptoms - People who have bulimia eat an excessive amount of
food in a single episode and almost immediately make themselves vomit or use
laxatives or diuretics (water pills) to get rid of the food in their bodies.
This behavior often is referred to as the "binge/purge" cycle. Like people
with anorexia, people with bulimia have an intense fear of gaining weight.
As the problem with eating disorders, and the sheer number of those afflicted
come forward, there is many places to turn to for answers you might have. Many
school therapists and doctors are trained in diagnosing an eating disorder
problem and can provide recommendations for help. There are many self-help books
available along with numerous websites that can explain the signs
of an eating disorder, and provide local numbers to contact for further
information if you see a loved one experience symptoms of eating disorders.
Symptoms of Eating Disorders to E
|
