Characteristics, Symptoms, & Effects Eating Disorders Characteristics, Symptoms, & Effects
What are Eating Disorders? Definition An extreme, unhealthy behavior related to food, eating, and weight. Causes Not really known, research continues. Prevalence It is estimated that one in ten of all teens suffer from an eating disorder.
Anorexia Nervosa Characteristics Symptoms Self-starvation Obsessive fear of gaining weight Symptoms Dangerously underweight. Preoccupied by counting calories. Rituals Often times like to prepare meals for others. Eating is a matter of control.
Anorexia Nervosa Effects Lowered heart rate and body temperature. Organ failure. Death (10%)
Binge Eating Characteristics Symptoms Effects Lack of control while eating huge quantities. Tends to occur when emotionally upset or stressed. Symptoms Great fluctuations in weight. Effects Heart and kidney problems due to stress on body and mind.
Bulimia Nervosa Characteristics Symptoms Binging and purging trough vomiting, laxatives, or extreme physical exercise. Bingers sometimes eat 3000 to 5000 calories at a time (up to 20000 calories a day). Often times due to stress, loneliness, or depression. Symptoms Typically maintain a stable weight. Rituals
Bulimia Nervosa Symptoms Cont. Effects Swollen glands or teeth problems. Effects Damage to esophagus, teeth, gums, and constant sore throats. Heart failure and kidney problems. Stunted growth in children and teens.