Afraid a Loved One is Suffering from Anorexia or Bulimia? 

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An eating disorder can disrupt many lives and make things challenging for all of those involved. Attaining professional treatment for eating disorders, like anorexia or bulimia, is crucial to the well being of an afflicted person’s mental and physical health. Without proper diagnosis and treatment, eating disorders like these can cause health problems that can linger for the duration of a lifetime.

It would not be a bad idea to make you aware of the symptoms and warning signs of an eating disorder. The symptoms vary regarding the type of eating disorder involved. Anorexia and bulimia are 2 of the more common disorders known today.

Anorexia nervosa is a condition that causes a person to simply stop eating. The weight loss involved with anorexia can be accomplished by laxative abuse and/or causing one’s self to purge. However with anorexia the weight loss is most commonly attributed to the lack of calories and nourishment one is receiving. This can become a life-threatening situation if not dealt with on time. The symptoms of anorexia include:

·         extreme weight loss

·         low self-esteem

·         menstrual changes in females

·         depression and fatigue

·         brittle nails or hair

Bulimia is another eating disorder directly linked to the desire to lose weight. Bulimics are often more prone to the self purging technique for weight loss, however, laxative abuse and increased physical exercise can also play a factor. The signs and symptoms to watch for include the following: 

·         vomiting after binge-eating

·         fear of becoming overweight

·         lack of control over eating habits

·         exaggerated interest in health and fitness

·         dehydration

Treatment for bulimia and anorexia will often focus on the person’s self-esteem and how they view their body. Treatment plans will often include nutrition education, psychotherapy, family counseling, and medications. It is important to follow professional assistance thoroughly so that a complete recovery can be made with the fewest long-term health effects possible. Self-care will play a crucial role in the healing process.

If you suspect an eating disorder in your family you may want to start watching your loved one more carefully. Is that person spending long periods of time in the bathroom during or after dinner? This could be a telltale sign that they are purging themselves after eating. You may also want to be on the lookout for any odd changes in diet or fitness habits. Does your loved one still eat meals with the rest of the family or try to remain excluded from the event? These would be things to consider when trying discovering a problem. It is a fact that an eating disorder can develop into much worse if left unnoticed and untreated.

What causes eating-disorders like anorexia or bulimia? It is usually a low self-esteem accompanied by a society who worships the beautiful. The desire to be what is accepted can turn into a life or death battle for some. The probability of a successful recovery increases with support from family, friends, and loved ones.