medical complications associated with eating disorders

Eating Eating DisordersDisordersMedical Complications

What is an eating disorder?What is an eating disorder?

Ano re x iaNe rvos a

B ulimiaNe rvos a

Weigh <85% of normal weight for age and height

Distorted body image Intense fear of fat Lack of menstruation Two types◦ 1. restricting

◦ 2. binge/purge

Binge eating Compensatory behavior ◦ Vomiting

◦ Exercising

◦ Fasting

◦ Laxatives

Behavior occurs 2x’s a week for 3 months

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How Anorexia Affects Your Body

http://www.4women.gov/FAQ/anorexia-nervosa.cfm

Cardiovascular & Musculoskeletal Cardiovascular & Musculoskeletal • Low blood pressure (hypotension)• Diminished heart muscle size• Potentially FATAL arrhythmias

•Bradycardia (slow heart beat)

92%- osteopenia

38% -osteoporosis

•Low bone density (osteopenia)• Porous bones (osteoporosis) • Frequent stress fractures• Muscle Atrophy

Reproductive & Nervous SystemReproductive & Nervous System

•Cessation of menstrual periods (amenorrhea)•Decreased sexual interest•Congenital defects in newborns•Miscarriage- 6x more likely

• Overall brain atrophy (shrinkage)•Increased stress hormone•Seizures•Poor concetration•Impaired memory

Headaches reported in 28% of patients

Physical & Metabolic SymptomsPhysical & Metabolic Symptoms

Fainting/dizzy spells

Pneumonia Dry skin Fatigue Difficulty

sleeping Lanugo-fine

hair over the body

•Hypoglycemia•Electrolyte imbalance•Low red (anemia) & white (leukopenia) blood count•Slowed metabolic rate

How Bulimia Affects Your Body

http://www.womenshealth.gov/FAQ/bulimia-nervosa.cfm

Cardiovascular & MusculoskeletalCardiovascular & Musculoskeletal

Muscle weakness Erosion of dental enamel (if purging) Increased susceptibility to hemorrhaging Cardiomyopathy due to Ipecac use Hypertension due to diet pills

Ipecac use can result in the

weakening of the heart

Diet pills can result in high

blood pressure

Reproductive & GastrointestinalReproductive & Gastrointestinal

Miscarriage 2x as likely Impaired fertility Irregular periods

•Tearing or bleeding of esophagus•Constipation•Colon damage•Heartburn•Hernia•Hemorrhoids•Bloating•Abdominal pain

Physical & MetabolicPhysical & Metabolic Scars on back of hands Bloodshot eyes Stress-induced rashes

Kidney damage or failure Dehydration Diabetes (from binges) Abnormal growth hormone

How do I get help?How do I get help?

National Eating Disorders Association Survival Guide A physical exam is in order to check for

severe heath problems. Treatment of eating disorders must

address psychological issues. A dietician is often helpful after intial

treatment.