Heath risks of eating disorders

Heath risks of eating disorders

The health risks for the individual depend on the type and severity of the eating disorder. Many health problems are rectified when normal eating patterns and weight is restored however in some cases damage to the body is irreversible.

Anorexia Nervosa

The body is deprived of the essential nutrients and energy it needs to function effectively, it is then forced to slow down all of its processes in order to conserve energy which results in serious medical consequences and sometimes death.

Some medical effects of starvation include:

Abnormally slow heart rate and low blood pressure.
Risk for heart failure increases as the blood pressure and heart rate drops.
Reduction of bone density which results in dry and brittle bones (osteoporosis).
Muscle loss and weakness.
Severe dehydration (may result in kidney failure).
Dry hair and skin.
Hair loss.
Lanugo (growth of a fine downy hair layer to keep the body warm).
Severe sensitivity to the cold.
Problems conceiving and infertility.
Headaches.
Oedema (retention of fluid giving a "puffy" appearance)
Stunting of height and growth.
Loss of periods.
Anaemia (iron deficiency).
Hypoglycaemia.
Abdominal pain.
Constipation or diarrhoea.
Fainting.
Reduced ability to concentrate and think clearly.

Bulimia Nervosa:

Recurrent bingeing and purging can place a great deal of stress on the body and can lead to electrolyte and chemical imbalances that may effect the heart and other major organs.

Effects of vomiting:

Tooth decay, erosion of enamel and staining due to exposure to stomach acid.
Enlarged or swollen salivary glands.
Abdominal pain.
Sore throat.
Indigestion and heartburn.
Electrolyte imbalances that can lead to irregular heartbeat and in rare cases heart failure or death. Dehydration and loss of sodium and potassium cause electrolyte imbalance.
There is a slim chance of gastric rupture from excessive vomiting.

Effects of laxative abuse:

Chronic irregular bowel movements.
Dehydration which may lead to an electrolyte imbalance.
Bowel disease.
Bleeding (may lead to anaemia).
Constipation.

Effects of syrup of ipecac abuse:

Syrup of ipecac is very dangerous and can lead to major damage to the nervous system and heart.

Effects of diuretic abuse:

Abuse of diuretics may lead to a serious condition called hypokalemia where the body loses too much potassium. This may cause disturbances in the heart's rhythm and may even cause it to stop.
Dehydration.

Effects of diet pill abuse:

May lead to heart rhythm disturbances and changes in blood pressure and pulse.

Effects of excessive exercise:

May lead to stress fractures.
May lead to menstrual cycle abnormalities.

Binge eating disorder

Binge eating disorder may lead to obesity, which has many health risks.

Health risks of obesity:

High blood pressure.
High cholesterol.
Heart disease.
Type 2 diabetes.
Gallbladder disease.

Other eating disorders

It is very difficult to pinpoint the heath risks in this category as it depends on many variables. People suffering from unspecified eating disorders however still may be at risk for some of the above health problems and should be encouraged to seek treatment and medical advice.

Last Updated 23-Oct-2009. Authorised by: Stephanie Jones. Enquiries: Michelle Roberton.