What are the Symptoms of Eating Disorders?
September 19, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Eating disorders are complex mental health conditions that can have serious physical and emotional effects. Symptoms can vary based on the specific eating disorder, but some common signs and symptoms may include:
- Drastic weight changes: Significant weight loss or gain that is not related to a medical condition.
- Preoccupation with food, weight, or body image: Constantly thinking about food, calories, dieting, or one’s appearance.
- Distorted body image: Perceiving one’s body differently than how it actually is, often seeing oneself as overweight even if underweight.
- Changes in eating patterns:
- Restrictive eating or extreme dieting.
- Binge-eating large amounts of food in a short period, often in secret.
- Engaging in purging behaviors (e.g., vomiting, excessive exercise, laxative use) to compensate for overeating.
- Avoidance of social situations involving food: Skipped meals, making excuses to avoid eating with others.
- Obsessive rituals around food: Cutting food into tiny pieces, eating very slowly, or arranging food in specific ways.
- Physical signs and symptoms:
- Fatigue and low energy.
- Dizziness or feeling lightheaded.
- Changes in menstrual cycle for females.
- Feeling cold all the time.
- Dry skin and brittle nails.
- Thinning or loss of hair.
- Isolation and withdrawal: Avoiding social interactions, becoming increasingly isolated.
- Mood changes: Anxiety, depression, irritability, or significant mood swings.
It’s important to note that individuals may exhibit a combination of these symptoms, and not everyone will display the same signs. If you suspect someone is struggling with an eating disorder or if you’re concerned about your own behavior, seeking help from a healthcare professional, therapist, or counselor is crucial for diagnosis, treatment, and support.