Eating disorders are serious mental health conditions that cause changes in eating behaviors and preoccupations with food, body size, and shape. These conditions can lead to significant physical and psychological complications, impacting virtually all aspects of a person’s life.
It is estimated that nearly 30 million Americans will suffer from an eating disorder, such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia, at some point in their lives. Although there are many inaccurate stereotypes suggesting that only young women are susceptible to eating disorders, research indicates that rates of eating disorders in men are increasing. This statistic reinforces the importance of understanding and recognizing the signs of eating disorders, helping those around us access quality treatment faster.
What is Anorexia Nervosa?
Anorexia nervosa is marked by reducing food intake leading to drastic weight loss, a fear of gaining weight, and a distorted body image. People with this condition often think that they need to lose weight, despite already being underweight. This makes accessing treatment challenging as the patient does not think that it’s necessary.
Anorexia can have a wide range of physical and emotional effects. Physically, people with this condition may experience:
- Fatigue
- Brittle nails and hair
- Hair loss or lanugo
- Gastrointestinal issues
- Low blood pressure or a slow heart rate
Emotionally, this condition can be very isolating. Many people with anorexia will also suffer from co-occurring mental health conditions such as anxiety and depression.
What is Bulimia Nervosa?
Bulimia nervosa involves episodes of binge eating (eating larger than typical amounts of food in a short period of time) followed by compensatory behaviors such as inducing vomiting, excessive exercise, or misuse of laxatives. People with this condition may feel a loss of control during binges and experience guilt afterward.
Those struggling with bulimia have a range of body types and sizes but are typically able to maintain what is considered to be a “normal” weight. This makes the disorder harder to recognize and is also a key difference between anorexia and bulimia.
There are many different physical and emotional effects of bulimia. Those with this condition may experience physical conditions like:
- Tooth decay
- Electrolyte imbalances
- Gastrointestinal problems like acid reflux
- Heart complications
Co-occurring mental health conditions are common with all eating disorders, because of this, those with bulimia are also at an increased risk of conditions like anxiety and depression.
Key Differences Between Anorexia and Bulimia
Anorexia and bulimia have different behaviors associated with each condition. Anorexia is characterized by severe restriction of food intake, leading to noticeable weight loss. Those with anorexia are often fueled by a fear of gaining weight. Bulimia involves a binge-purge cycle, those with this condition are more likely to feel guilt or shame after eating.
Physically, someone with anorexia is more likely to be underweight. Those with bulimia typically vary in body size but this condition can have other physical signs such as swollen cheeks, cuts or calluses on the hands, or bloodshot eyes.
While research is still emerging, some suggest that certain personality traits may be correlated with various types of eating disorders. These early studies indicate that people with anorexia are more likely to have anxious and perfectionistic traits, while those with bulimia are more likely to have impulsive tendencies.
Shared Characteristics of Both Disorders
Anorexia, bulimia, and other eating disorders have several similarities. Those with these conditions often experience negative feelings around the body and body image. For some, certain foods or mealtimes can feel distressing. In addition to sharing these feelings, both anorexia and bulimia share contributing factors and can cause some of the same health complications.
While there is no single known risk factor for eating disorders, several have been identified including:
- Genetic predisposition: Studies indicate that certain genes may put a person at an increased risk of developing an eating disorder.
- Environmental influences: Exposure to stress or periods of starvation may increase the likelihood of developing an eating disorder such as anorexia or bulimia.
- Societal pressures: Idealizing thinness and constant media messaging can contribute to the development of eating disorders.
Eating disorders can cause or contribute to an array of physical complications including:
- Heart problems
- Osteoporosis
- Dehydration
Treatment Options for Anorexia and Bulimia
Effective treatment for either condition typically involves a combination of therapy, nutritional counseling, and medical monitoring. This may include cognitive-behavioral therapy to address and reframe thought patterns around food, the body, and eating. Those recovering from an eating disorder also benefit from nutritional counseling to establish balanced eating habits. Because of the physical health complications that come with eating disorders, working with a physician to monitor and treat health concerns is also necessary.
Early diagnosis and intervention are crucial for recovery from eating disorders. The longer they go untreated, the more complex and ingrained these behaviors are likely to become. A consultation with a primary care provider or trusted therapist can be a beneficial first step in finding care for an eating disorder. These providers can assist you or a loved one in finding the best treatment path moving forward.
How to Support Someone Struggling with an Eating Disorder
If you suspect that a loved one is struggling with an eating disorder, it’s important to approach them with empathy. Start by expressing your concerns in a calm way, focusing on specific behaviors you’ve observed. Offer to help them set up an appointment to address these concerns with a trusted provider. You can also offer to drive them or accompany them to this appointment.
Especially during this conversation, it is important not to comment on their appearance or eating habits. This could cause the person who is struggling to feel guilt or shame, potentially changing the direction of the conversation and their decision to get help.
Healing is Possible
Eating disorders like anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa are serious conditions that require professional treatment and time for healing. Recognizing the signs and understanding the differences between these two conditions can aid in early detection and intervention. If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, seeking professional help is essential. Recovery is possible with the right support and treatment.