Eating Disorder

Eating disorders are persistent disturbances of eating or eating-related behavior that significantly impair physical health or psychosocial function. Main types: anorexia nervosa (restricted intake, low body weight, fear of fatness), bulimia nervosa (binge-eating with compensatory purging), and binge-eating disorder (binge-eating without compensation). They are associated with medical complications (electrolyte disturbance, cardiac/bone/GI effects) and high mortality. Treatment: multidisciplinary care (nutrition rehabilitation, psychotherapy such as CBT/ family therapy, and psychotropic medication as indicated).

Common Symptoms

Restricted intake/binge-eating/purging; fear of fatness; body-image disturbance; weight loss or fluctuation; medical complications

Causes and Pathogenesis

Genetic/psychological/sociocultural factors interact to produce disturbed eating and body-image, with serious medical sequelae.

Treatment

Nutritional rehabilitation; CBT/family therapy; SSRIs (bulimia); manage medical complications; inpatient care when severe

Preventive Measures

Early detection; healthy body-image promotion; family support; treat comorbid depression/anxiety.

Department to Visit

It is recommended to visit the Psychiatry department; an appointment can be booked on this platform before the visit.

Warm reminder: The above information is for health science reference only and cannot replace professional medical diagnosis. If you have related symptoms, please seek medical attention at a regular hospital promptly.