$Unique_ID{BRK00139}
$Pretitle{}
$Title{Concerns About Eating Disorders}
$Subject{anorexia diet weight bulimia Mental Emotional Conditions condition
Eating Disorders disorder emaciated thin dieting sickness nervosa bulimia
depression ashamed guilty fatigue insomnia Russell Russell's scarring dieter
dieters}
$Volume{E-26,E-26}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991-92,1993   Tribune Media Services, Inc.


Concerns About Eating Disorders


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QUESTION:  I recently visited my single daughter who lives on the West Coast.
I was shocked; she looked so thin and emaciated.  But she assured me she was
fine, that her weight was normal and there was nothing to worry about.  I
think she has that dieting sickness, but how can I tell?  What can I do to
help?

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ANSWER:  By dieting sickness, I take it to mean one of the eating disorders,
such as anorexia nervosa or bulimia (where sufferers binge and then purge by
vomiting, or sometimes use laxatives, or water pills).  Such patients
generally deny that they are too thin, are proud or even protective of their
low weight as normal.  Most frequently they are young women in their teens or
early twenties, often from middle or upper class families and display
depression or other emotional problems in as many as 50% of the cases.
Alcoholism or other chemical dependency may be associated with eating
disorders.  You won't have an easy time discussing the problem with your
daughter, for many women who fall prey to this illness feel ashamed and guilty
about their actions, isolating them from their families and friends.  Physical
symptoms include fatigue, difficulty with mental tasks, and insomnia.
Russell's sign, a scarring on the back of the hand, can be caused by cuts
inflicted by her teeth when patients provoke vomiting by sticking fingers down
the back of the throat.  Successful treatment involves a team approach
including a physician for medical care, nutritional counseling, and
psychotherapy.  Hospitalization is rarely needed, but medication to combat the
depression may help as many as 50% of the patients control their binges.  Your
task lies in convincing your daughter that she needs evaluation and help.

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The material contained here is "FOR INFORMATION ONLY" and should not replace
the counsel and advice of your personal physician.  Promptly consulting your
doctor is the best path to a quick and successful resolution of any medical
problem.