Eating Disorders Types, Diagnosis, and Treatment

Types of Eating Disorders

There are different forms of eating disorders:

• Anorexia nervosa: Extreme food or calorie restriction (self-starvation), great anxiety of weight gain, and an inaccurate assessment of their shape.
• Bulimia nervosa: Consuming excessive food quickly (bingeing) or believing intake was excessive, then eliminating food (purging) through vomiting, laxatives (medications that cause bowel movements), or extreme exercise.
• Binge eating disorder: Overeating or perceiving excessive intake in a short time, followed by emotions like guilt, regret, shame, or depression.
• Pica: The compulsive consumption of non-food substances (such as dirt, chalk, or paint).
• Rumination disorder: Regurgitation of undigested food after swallowing, followed by rechewing, re-swallowing, or spitting it out.
• Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID): Avoiding certain foods or limiting portions for reasons not linked to body image or weight loss.

A person can sometimes experience more than one eating disorder simultaneously.

Signs and Symptoms

Eating disorder signs and symptoms can differ depending on the type. However, they may include:

• Sudden mood changes.
• Feeling faint or dizzy.
• Persistent fatigue.
• Hair thinning or noticeable hair loss.
• Significant or unexplained weight fluctuations.
• Unusual sweating or sudden hot flashes.

Behavioural Indicators of eating disorders are:

• Strict food restrictions.
• Consuming large amounts quickly.
• Avoiding specific foods or meals altogether.
• Inducing vomiting or misusing laxatives.
• Exercising excessively after eating.
• Taking frequent bathroom trips post-meal.
• Withdrawing from friends or social events.
• Hiding or discarding food.
• Unusual eating habits (chewing excessively, eating in secret).

Recognising an eating disorder in someone can be challenging since it often resembles changes in diet or lifestyle (modifications aimed at improving overall health). Additionally, a person’s appearance alone does not reveal whether they have an eating disorder.

Causes

The cause of eating disorders remains uncertain. However, studies suggest multiple factors may contribute:

• Genetics: Research indicates that conditions like bulimia nervosa, anorexia nervosa, and binge eating disorder are hereditary. Certain genetic traits inherited from biological relatives may increase susceptibility.
• Brain chemistry: The brain releases chemicals like dopamine and serotonin, which influence pleasure and happiness. Studies show that these chemicals trigger in response to certain eating disorder manners.
• Social and cultural influences: The pressure to conform can impact mental health, altering behaviour to match unrealistic expectations. In today’s digital world, movies, social media, and television may lower self-regard if you feel you don’t resemble admired figures.
• Mental health conditions: Struggles with food may arise when life feels overwhelming. In some cases, disordered eating becomes an unhealthy coping mechanism for distressing emotions, often occurring together with other mental health illnesses.

Risk Factors

Eating disorders can affect individuals of any age. However, they are most prevalent among teenagers and adolescents. You may have an increased risk if you:

• Have a family history of eating disorders or other mental health problems.
• Have experienced emotional, physical, or sexual trauma.
• Struggle with an underlying mental health issue, such as anxiety, depression, or obsessive-compulsive disorder.
• Take part in sports or activities where body size and weight matter, such as swimming, wrestling, or gymnastics.
• Undergo a significant life change, such as moving, starting a new job or school, or going through a divorce.
• Have Type 1 diabetes. Research suggests up to 25% of women with this condition suffer from an eating disorder.
• Possess a driven character and a strong desire for perfection.

Complications of Eating Disorders

Strictly limiting food intake, vomiting, or excessive exercise can negatively impact physical health. Without treatment, eating disorders may lead to serious complications, including:

• Irregular heartbeat, heart failure and other cardiovascular issues.
• Gastrointestinal problems, including acid reflux (GERD).
• Low blood pressure (hypotension).
• Brain damage and organ failure.
• Osteoporosis.
• Severe constipation and dehydration.
• Stroke.
• Loss of menstruation (amenorrhea) and potential infertility.
• Tooth damage.

Diagnosis

An eating disorder is usually diagnosed by:

• Conducting a physical examination.
• Assessing your symptoms.
• Gathering details about your eating and exercise patterns.
• Ordering tests like blood work, urine analysis, or imaging (such as kidney function tests or an electrocardiogram) to rule out other conditions or check for complications.

Treatment for Eating Disorders

Treatment varies depending on the type of eating disorder. They may include:

• Psychotherapy: A psychologist will recommend the most suitable therapy for your needs. Possible options are group, individual, or family therapy, with many individuals benefiting from cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT).
• Medications: Since eating disorders often occur alongside anxiety, depression, or other conditions, medications such as antidepressants or antipsychotics may help manage these symptoms.
• Nutritional counselling: A certified dietitian specializing in eating disorders can guide healthier eating habits and create balanced meal plans. They can also provide support with grocery shopping, meal preparation, and planning.

A combination of treatments is often the most effective approach. Your healthcare team will develop a personalized plan that addresses the physical, emotional, and behavioural aspects of your condition.

Even without a formal eating disorder diagnosis, medical professionals can help you navigate food-related challenges and other health concerns.

Conclusion

Eating disorders are usually serious health conditions that impact mental as well as physical health. Because certain behaviours may feel familiar, you might not recognize them as harmful or dangerous.

If you suspect you have an eating disorder, seeking professional help is essential. With the right medical care and mental health support, recovery is possible.

Even if overcoming this challenge feels overwhelming, progress is achievable. Support from others can make a difference—so reach out to a trusted friend or family member. Being open and honest may provide the encouragement required to take the initial step toward healing.

For more information or to address any concerns, book an appointment with us today.