Eating Disorders

What is anorexia nervosa?

the active maintenance of a low body weight where BMI is 17 or below

What BMI is considered severe anorexia nervosa?

below 15

Is anorexia and bulimia more common in males or females?

females

Give 5 behavioural signs of anorexia nervosa?

1) strict dieting

2) depression and anxiety symptoms

3) setting high standards

4) distorted perception of weight/ body shape

5) telling lies about eating

Give 6 physical signs of anorexia nervosa?

1) severe weight loss

2) irritable and moody

3) hair falls out

4) weakness

5) periods stop

6) downy hair on body

What is bulimia nervosa?

binge eating and purging

What is classified as binge eating?

being unable to stop eating whilst feeling bad about it

Give 4 examples of purging/ compensatory behaviours associated with bulimia nervosa?

1) vomiting

2) using laxatives

3) fasting

4) exercise

What is the threshold of binge frequency for bulimia nervosa?

1 binge per week for 3 months

In what age group is bulimia nervosa most prevalent?

18-25

Give 6 behavioural signs of bulimia nervosa:

1) purging after binging

2) depression

3) disappearing after eating

4) mood swings

5) feeling guilt of shame after binging

6) distorted perception of weight/ shape

Give 6 physical signs of bulimia nervosa:

1) fatigue

2) stomach pain

3) gastric problems

4) electrolyte imbalance

5) bloating

6) enlarged salivary glands

What is binge eating disorder?

significant binge-eating episodes, followed by distress, disgust, or guilt, but without the compensatory purging or fasting that marks bulimia nervosa

Give 6 common risk factors for eating disorders:

1) perfectionism

2) family history

3) mental health problems

4) being part of a sport/ activity with an emphasis on appearance

5) history of significant dieting

6) exposure to media promoting social comparison

What are specific ED risk factors?

risk factors associated with weight or shape

What are non-specific ED risk factors?

risk factors with no association with weight or shape such as trauma

Give 3 examples of treatment plans for eating disorders?

1) family based treatment- parents are made agents for change

2) physical monitoring

3) cognitive behavioural therapy-enhanced