When you have an obsession with food and can’t control your eating, you might be experiencing an eating disorder. You may be suffering from binge eating or bulimia nervosa. Both are serious illnesses that cause significant physical and psychological problems. Whether you’re just worried about your weight or you’re worried about someone else, you should seek help. In addition to affecting your health, an eating disorder can also affect your social life and personal relationships.
The symptoms of an eating disorder are similar to those of other psychological illnesses. They involve an obsession with food, an intense fear of gaining weight, and a loss of control over eating. They may also cause you to avoid certain foods, which can have harmful physical effects. For example, an eating disorder can cause allergic reactions, constipation, and failure to achieve your expected weight gain. In some cases, you might be admitted to the hospital. Fortunately, you can take steps to treat your disorder and get your life back on track.
In order to find out if you have an eating disorder, you’ll need to have a doctor evaluate your eating habits. Your doctor will also order a few tests. If you have an eating disorder, your doctor will most likely refer you to a mental health professional. A dietitian can provide you with a plan for healthy eating.
In general, an eating disorder is an unhealthy pattern of eating and exercise. It can result in significant weight loss, and may interfere with your ability to work, go to school, and enjoy your social life. It can also cause emotional problems, such as anxiety and depression. A doctor can recommend therapy that can help you stop overeating and learn how to eat more healthfully. You can find a mental health practitioner through your health care provider or by visiting the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s website.
There are three types of eating disorders, and they are commonly associated with feelings of shame. These include bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, and anorexia nervosa. The latter is most common, and involves binging on large amounts of food. This can lead to feelings of shame and guilt. You might then feel the need to purge the excess food. These can include throwing up, using laxatives, or taking diet pills. You might have to skip meals, go for long periods of time without food, or engage in other behaviors to compensate for your eating.
In bulimia nervosa, you have a recurring binge, and you attempt to compensate for this binge by purging the excess food through vomiting, fasting, or using laxatives. It is important that you see a physician for an evaluation to determine if you have bulimia. The treatment for this type of disorder is very individualized. You might need several specialists involved, including a psychiatrist, psychologist, or dietitian.
There are also several other types of eating disorders, and they can have a wide range of symptoms. These can include anxiety and depression, lack of self-esteem, personality disorders, and substance use.
