An eating disorder (an inappropriate eating behavior) is a complex, often chronic, disease. This eMedTV article talks about anorexia, bulimia, and other types of the disease. It also discusses possible causes and treatment options.
A few of the eating disorders that many people are familiar with include anorexia and bulimia. This part of the eMedTV library discusses these disorders and other types of eating disorders, such as EDNOS and disordered eating.
As this eMedTV segment explains, the specific causes of eating disorders are unknown, but risk factors may involve personality factors, genetics, and biochemistry. This article describes in detail these risk factors and limited research findings.
This eMedTV article explains that signs and symptoms of eating disorders can include vomiting, avoiding food, and overeating compulsively. The specific symptoms vary by type, but they all involve an unhealthy preoccupation with food and weight.
As this eMedTV page explains, eating disorders are diagnosed based on criteria such as compulsive exercising or obsession with food. This page provides an overview of this topic and explains that with eating disorders, diagnosis can take a long time.
Therapy, medicines, and nutritional counseling are all parts of a successful eating disorder treatment plan. This eMedTV article describes these various treatment options and includes links to treatments for specific eating disorders, like anorexia.
As this eMedTV page explains, there is no guaranteed way to prevent an eating disorder, but setting a good example for your child is an excellent start. This page covers offers some prevention tips and explains the importance of early intervention.
As this eMedTV article explains, an estimated 5 to 35 percent of people with eating disorders are male, and they experience many of the same problems as females. This section of the Web site provides detailed information on male eating disorders.
This eMedTV segment explains that researchers are studying the brain, biology, and hormones in order to better understand and treat eating disorders. This article discusses these and other areas of eating disorder research.
Statistics show that eating disorders can affect anyone, anywhere. And, as this eMedTV article points out, they are being diagnosed at younger ages than before. This article provides a wide range of statistics on eating disorders.
