Like many types of mental illnesses, eating disorders affect you physically as much as they do mentally. If you or someone you love is dealing with one, you may notice symptoms such as:
- Weight fluctuations
- Rituals or obsessions related to food
- Body image issues
- Mood swings
- Social isolation
- Fatigue and dizziness
- Discoloration in the skin and teeth
- Gastrointestinal or muscular issues
Even if there is no visible change in the person’s weight or appearance, an eating disorder is a serious condition that requires more than a visit to a general practitioner (GP). Learn more about the four main types of eating disorders so you can help recognize and address them quickly.
Symptoms of Anorexia Nervosa
Perhaps the most widely known eating disorder is anorexia nervosa, or just anorexia. People with this type of eating disorder perceive themselves as overweight and have a fear of gaining weight, even if they are of a healthy size. Common anorexia symptoms include:
- Excessive exercising.
- Fasting or dieting regularly.
- Taking laxatives or diuretics.
- Refusing to eat around others.
- Issues with self-esteem and self-confidence.
Symptoms of Bulimia Nervosa
Bulimia nervosa, or bulimia, has similarities to anorexia in that it involves a distorted body image. People with this eating disorder go through a cycle of binge-eating followed by purging, and often take laxatives or diuretics to aid in that cycle. Other bulimia symptoms include:
- Excessive exercising.
- Using the bathroom directly after a meal.
- Fasting.
- Developing highly specific eating rituals.
- Low self-esteem and confidence.
Understanding Binge-Eating Disorder
Unlike anorexia and bulimia, binge-eating disorder often occurs when a person wants to fill an emotional hole or wound instead of changing their physical appearance. They may eat a full day’s worth of food in one sitting, and often describe being unable to stop eating once they start — even if they are full. Individuals with binge-eating disorder may:
- Eat food quickly.
- Eat food even if they aren’t hungry.
- Refuse to eat in front of others or “save up” their calories for later bingeing.
- Feel like they can’t control how much food they consume.
- Experience guilt or shame following a large meal or binge.
What Is ARFID?
Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) is an eating disorder where people refuse to eat certain foods or all foods, leading to serious nutritional deficiencies and extreme weight loss. ARFID symptoms may include:
- Concerns about food taste, textures, smells or color.
- Being a “picky eater.”
- A fear of choking or vomiting.
- Eating the same meals every day.
- Symptoms of malnutrition (dry skin, hair loss, low energy, slow-healing injuries, etc.).
Find Compassionate Eating Disorder Treatments Today
When you or someone close to you is dealing with an eating disorder, trust the professionals at Merrimack Valley Psychological Associates. We offer empathetic, evidence-based treatment to patients with eating disorders every day, and we invite you to learn more about how we can help. There is no judgment here — only healing. Connect with our specialists today.