www.masbakersfield.com

Eating disorders continued ...

larger view

Getting help
There is treatment for eating disorders. The first step to overcoming an eating disorder is to know that a problem exists and that help is needed. Family and friends can help the person become aware of the problem. Eating disorders may be diagnosed by a doctor or other health care worker.

People with eating disorders may become angry or defensive when someone tries to help. However, they may be relieved that someone tries to help. Be sensitive to the person’s feelings.  Let her know that you care about her well-being.

Treatment often involves a doctor’s care or going into the hospital. Treatment in a hospital is needed for many people with anorexia. Medication also may be used to help treat the disorder as well as the health problems caused by it. Treatment also includes either single, family, or group counseling.

Ask for help if you believe that you, a family member, or a friend has an eating disorder. Not all doctors are trained to treat eating disorders. Your doctor can refer you to someone who can help.  You also may want to contact local self-help and support groups that help people with eating disorders.

Finally…
Eating disorders affect the health and well-being of many women.  If not treated, eating disorders can lead to serious social, emotional, and medical problems-sometimes death.  With treatment and counseling, a woman with an eating disorder can live a happy and healthy life.

Glossary
Anorexia Nervosa: An eating disorder in which distorted body image leads a person to diet excessively.

Binge Eating Disorder: An eating disorder in which a person eats large amounts of food while feeling a loss of control over his or her eating.

Bulimia Nervosa: An eating disorder in which a person binges on food and then forces vomiting or abuses laxatives.

Dehydration: Water loss from the body.

Fasting: Not eating for at least 24 hours.

Obese: Weighing more than 20 percent above a healthy body weight.

Osteoporosis: A condition in which the bones become so fragile that they break more easily.

Purge: To vomit or use laxatives, diuretics (water pills), or emetics (vomiting inducers) to avoid gaining weight.