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Chapter 8-D
Related Topics: Counseling: Individual, Group and Family | Support Groups
Facts About Eating Disorders
Eating disorders, such as anorexia nervosa and bulimia, are serious health problems. They can cause long-term damage to your body and 10 percent of people with eating disorders die. Treatment is available, but early treatment is critical to your chances of recovery. Some of the symptoms are:
Anorexia Nervosa:
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Refusal to eat normally or at all.
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Preoccupation with food and calorie counting.
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Constantly checking weight.
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Frequent strenuous exercise.
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Loss of 25 percent of normal body weight.
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Excessive concern for others' eating and an obsession with preparing food for them.
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Coarse, dry skin and hair loss.
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Hoarding and hiding food.
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Tendency to be highly self critical.
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Cessation of menstruation.
Bulimia:
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Buying and eating large amounts of food.
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Excessive use of laxatives and diuretics.
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Frequent vomiting.
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Sudden onset of tooth decay (caused by stomach acid eroding tooth enamel).
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Secretive behavior.
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Puffiness in the face.
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Fatigue and depression.
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Red knuckles from self-induced vomiting.
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Unexplained disappearance of large amounts of food, usually carbohydrates.
Resources
Center for Eating Disorders, PA
Sheppard and Enoch Pratt Hospital
6501 North Charles Street
Baltimore, Maryland 21204
410-938-5252
Offers comprehensive treatment services for the patient with complex eating disorders. This includes inpatient, day hospital and intensive outpatient services, as well as ongoing outpatient treatment.
Overeaters Anonymous
P.O. Box 20013
Baltimore, Maryland 21284
410-764-3136 (Answering Machine)
Fellowship of compulsive eaters who are striving to overcome problem.
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Editor: eab
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