| (Binge-Eating Syndrome) |
|
| What is It? |
|
| * Habit of consumption of large amounts of food in a discrete period of time. |
| * Binge eating is characterized by abnormal perception of body image, constant craving for food. Followed by self-induced vomiting, or laxative use. |
| * More common in adolescents or young adults, and in females. |
| * Psychological fears of becoming fat, loss of personal control. |
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| Causes |
|
| Unknown; thought to be largely emotional. |
|
| Diagnosis |
|
| * Recurrent episodes of binge eating (rapid consumption of a large amount of food in a discrete period of time). |
| * Lack of control over eating behavior during eating binges. |
| * Patient regularly engages in self-induced vomiting, use of laxatives or diuretics, strict dieting or fasting, or vigorous exercise to prevent weight gain. |
| * A minimum average of two binge-eating episodes a week for a least three months. |
| * Persistent over concern with body shape and weight. |
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| Associated Factors |
|
| * Strict, compulsive, perfectionistic family environment. |
| * Anorexia nervosa. |
| * Depression. |
| * Stress, including lifesyle changes, such as moving or starting a new school or job. |
| * Neurotic preoccupation with being physically attractive. |
|
| General Measures |
|
| * Therapy will consist of assessing nutritional status, establishing target goals, identifying triggers, improving relationships, overall well-being, techniques to avoid stress, etc. |
| * Treatment in an eating disorder facility may be recommended. |
| * Hospitalization in severe cases. |
| * Psychotherapy or counseling that may include hypnosis or biofeedback training. |
| Medication |
|
| Antidepressants are sometimes helpful. |
|
| Activity |
|
| No restrictions. |
|
| Diet |
|
| * If hospitalization is necessary, intravenous fluids may be prescribed. During recovery, vitamin and mineral supplements will be necessary until signs of deficiency disappear and normal eating patterns are established. |
| * For outpatient therapy, supervision and regulation of eating habits, a food diary may be maintained, feared foods will be reintroduced. |
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| Possible Complications |
|
| * Fluid and electrolyte imbalance form vomiting; dental disease; stomach rupture (rare). |
| * Cardiac complications. |
| * Low pulse rate and low blood pressure. |
| * Relapse. |
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| Prognosis |
|
| Outcome is variable; patients can learn to control the behavior with counseling, psychotherapy, biofeedback training and individual or group psychotherapy. |
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