Eating Disorders Flashcards
Define Anorexia
A psychological eating disorder that causes an obsession about body weight and diet. Characterised by kJ restriction.
Description of Anorexia
Characterised by excessive weight loss
Self-starvation
Preoccupation with foods, restricting whole categories of food
Anxiety about gaining weight
Denial of hunger
Excuses to avoid mealtimes
Excessive exercise to burn off kilojoules
Withdrawal from friends
Physical symptoms of Anorexia
Weight loss
Low blood pressure
Insomnia
Anomennorhea
Constipation
Fatigue and weakness
Dizziness
Dry skin and hair
Osteoporosis
Dental problems
Sensitivity to cold
Dehydration
Irregular heart beat
Emotional and behavioural symptoms of Anorexia
Body dysmorphia
Denial of hunger
Intense fear of weight gain
Mood swings
Depression
Lying about food consumption
Socially withdrawn
Obsession about food
Causes of Anorexia
Exact causes not known. Combination of biological, psychological and environmental factors
Biological causes of Anorexia
Genetic predisposition - perfectionism, OCD, other direct relatives have it
Serotonin imbalances have been linked to Anorexia
Psychological causes of Anorexia
Obsessive compulsive
Poor self esteem
Abuse
Environmental causes of Anorexia
Society/social media pressure
Success is equated with self worth
Peer pressure
Prevention and management of Anorexia
Nutritional plan that gradually increases the energy to gain weight
Calcium intake should be increased to reduce the risk of Osteoporosis
Emotional and psychological support from professionals
Support groups
Hospitalisation
Define Bulimia Nervosa
Binge eating, and inappropriate compensatory behaviours to prevent weight gain occur on average at least twice a week for 3 months. There is a consistent, excessive concern with body weight.
Describe Bulimia
Recurring inappropriate behaviour such as vomiting, use of laxatives, diuretics, enemas, or other medication, fasting or excessive exercise
Self evaluation is influenced by body shape and weight
Disturbance does not occur exclusively during episodes of Anorexia
Symptoms of Bulimia
Eating large amounts of food uncontrollably
Vomiting, using laxatives or other methods to eliminate food (purging)
Excessive concern about body weight
Depression/mood changes
Irregular menstrual periods
Unusual dental problems, swollen cheeks or glands, heartburn, bloating
Health consequences of Bulimia
Electrolyte imbalances that can lead to irregular heartbeats, heart failure and death
Imbalance is caused by dehydration and loss of potassium and sodium
Inflammation/rupture of esophagus from vomiting
Tooth decay and staining from stomach acids
Chronic irregular bowel movements and constipation due to laxative abuse
Gastric rupture is a possible side effect
Prevention and management of Bulimia
Balanced diet, high in macro-nutrients such as carbohydrates to prevent cravings
Protein and fat to give a feeling of satiation
Low GI foods to feel fuller for longer
Emotional and psychological support from professionals
Medication such as anti-depressants
