$Unique_ID{BRK00139}
$Pretitle{Mental and Emotional Conditions}
$Title{Concerns About Eating Disorders}
$Subject{anorexia dieting weight bulimia}
$Volume{E-26}
$Log{}

Copyright (c) 1991   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.
