Eating disorders are a severe mental health problem, affecting an estimated 5% of the world’s population. They are caused by a combination of factors including psychological and social factors, a distorted sense of body image, and eating behaviors. These eating disorders can cause serious health issues and can even be fatal. In most cases, they are treatable.
Eating disorders usually occur in adolescents, and they are more common in females than in males. However, people of all ages and races can develop them. There are several types of eating disorders, with some people having more than one. Some of these are anorexia nervosa and binge eating disorder.
Anorexia nervosa is a serious and potentially fatal eating disorder. It is characterized by a severe and distorted fear of becoming too fat. The disorder can lead to self-starvation, and it can lead to complications like heart problems, kidney dysfunction, and other medical conditions.
Binge eating disorder occurs when a person eats too much food in a short period of time. People with binge eating disorder may feel they lack control over their eating. Many times they will use inappropriate ways to get rid of the extra calories. This includes vomiting and using laxatives. Symptoms of binge eating are similar to those of anorexia. If you have binge eating disorder, you should consult your doctor to discuss the risks of binge eating and to learn more about the symptoms and treatments.
Avoidant-restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) is a disorder in which people limit the amount of food they eat. Previously called selective eating disorder, ARFID usually begins in middle childhood. People with ARFID also do not eat enough calories to maintain their basic body functions.
Other common types of eating disorders include bulimia nervosa and orthorexia nervosa. These two disorders involve an unhealthy obsession with healthy eating. Bulimia is an eating disorder that typically involves eating a large number of calories in a very short period of time.
Obesity is another eating disorder, resulting in a decrease in the normal weight of the patient. People with obesity may be prescribed medicines to help them lose weight and keep their weight at a healthy level. Treatments can include exercise and group therapy. Individual therapy can help the individual learn to control his or her weight.
Eating disorders can have a variety of causes, but many are caused by family history. For example, parents who have an eating disorder themselves are at an increased risk of passing the disorder on to their children. Besides, a person’s personality can influence the development of the disorder. People with anxiety disorders and perfectionism tend to be at an increased risk for developing an eating disorder.
There is no single cause for eating disorders, and they can affect anyone at any age. Genetics, traumatic events, and long-term illnesses can all trigger the disorder. When an eating disorder is diagnosed, it is important to seek treatment early. Not only can early treatment reduce the risk of suicide, but it can also protect the patient from medical complications.
