Marino Therapy Centre

Medical Compications associated with Eating distress & Eating disorders

Non-medical therapist treating ED need to be aware of the physical problems created by this illness, so that they can encourage their patients to seek medical evaluation and treatment. Two persons with the same behaviour may develop completely different symptoms. Some patients who self-induce vomiting has low electrolytes and bleeding oesophagus, others can vomit for years without ever developing these symptoms. It is necessary to have a well-trained and experienced physician as part of the treatment of an Eating Distress.

Medical assessment:
Laboratory and other diagnostic test
Nutritional evaluation
Physical exam

Complaints:
Headaches
Stomach-aches
Insomnia
Weakness
Fatigue
Dizzy spells

Consequences of starving (Anorexia Nervosa):
Dry thin hair
Dry skin covered with downy fuzz
Brittle splitting nails
Weak and wasted muscles
Tremors
Constipation, bloating and abdominal discomfort
Kidney and bladder infections
Urinary track stones
Cavities and gum disease
Frantic activity and depression
Absence of cycle
When the level of body fat falls bellows a certain point, the mind becomes utterly preoccupied with food.

Consequences of bingeing and vomiting (Bulimia Nervosa):
Menstrual irregularities
Puffy face, swollen gland in neck beneath jaw
Sore throat or sinus infections
Hair loss
Cavities and loss of tooth enamel
Weak muscles
Raw fingers from acid from vomiting/Russell’s sings