Eating disorders
The eating disorders are psychogenic disorders that are associated with the diet of the person, and have direct negative effects on both the nutritional status and general health. The most common eating disorders are the following:
- Bulimia nervosa
- Bulimia nervosa
- Episodic overeating
There are cases where the research tools for classification of the patient not give a clear classification into any of the above eating disorders, therefore, we should consider the existence of a informal disturbance in food intake.
Bulimia nervosa
It is characterized by persistent restriction of energy intake leading to significantly low body weight. Many times there is fear from the person that will get the weight all the while found to be non-realistic body image, showing at the same time persistent denial of the seriousness of the problem.
The incidence is higher in girls, especially in the adolescent age (15-19 years). Approximate 1.2-2.2% of the population of women I suffer from anorexia at some point in their lives, while in men this percentage is lower about the 0.3%.
Signs and symptoms
- Dry skin
- An intolerance to cold
- Blue hands and feet
- Constipation
- Flatulence
- Delayed puberty
- Amenorrhea
- Tense nerves
- Loss of consciousness
- Orthostatic hypotension
- Fluffy τρίχωση body
- Hair loss
- Fast saturation
- Weakness-fatigue
- Stature
- Osteoporosis
- Atrophy of the breasts
- Vaginitis
- Cardiac arrhythmias
- Hypothermia
Bulimia nervosa
Observed recurrent binge-eating episodes, as consumption a large amount of food in a specific period (e.x 2 hours) with a sense of a lack of control. Follow compensatory behaviors as αυτοπροκαλούμενοι vomiting, use of diuretics, laxatives or other medications, fasting or excessive exercise. The episodes appear at least 1 time a week for 3 months.
Signs and symptoms
- Sores oral
- Pharyngeal wound
- Damage to tooth
- Upset stomach, heartburn, pain in the chest
- Rupture of the esophagus
- Impulsive behavior
- Muscle cramps
- Weakness
- Diarrhea with blood
- Bleeding or easy bruising
- Non-regular menstrual cycles
- Loss of consciousness
- Swollen παρωτιδικοί glands
- Hypotension
Episodic overeating
It is a disorder in which appear repeatedly binge-eating episodes associated with at least three of the following characteristics:
- The person is eating faster than usual rate of consumption of a meal.
- Eat until you feel discomfort.
- Eating large quantities of food while he's not hungry.
- Eating alone because he feels awkward as to the amount of food it consumes.
- He feels very guilty after υπερφαγικό episode.
The episodes occur, on average, at least 1 time/week for 6 months.
Prevention of Disorders of Food intake
Before we get to the stage of treatment it is necessary to stand out in an earlier stage, that of prevention and to focus our attention on the following points:
- Early recognition of symptoms
- Realistic goals weight
- Balanced ways to control weight
- Guidance on nutrition
- Update on the effects (not the symptoms)
- Seeking help from the experts
Treatment of Disorders food intake
Eating disorders are a complex and important challenge that affects a very large number of people all over the world, affecting the health, self-esteem and quality of life. However, early recognition, support from their families, and guidance from health professionals, Psychiatrists/Psychologists, in collaboration with Clinical Dieticians-Nutritionists can play a decisive role in dealing with these issues. It is important to remember that the treatment is feasible and that the recovery is a journey full of challenges, but also hope. Empathy and the information can significantly help in the understanding and support of people experiencing such disorders, leading them to a life full of balance and mental well-being.
