Eating disorders

An eating disorder is present when a person experiences disturbances in eating behavior. Examples of severe cases include a drastic reduction of food intake, extreme overeating, feelings of extraordinary distress or concern about body weight. Eating disorders frequently appear during adolescence or young adulthood, but they can also develop much later in life.

Issues with eating frequently coexist with other psychiatric disorders, such as depression, substance abuse or anxiety disorders. Early intervention is important to healing, so try to get help as soon as possible. If you have an untreated eating disorder, you may experience serious health issues, including heart problems or kidney failure.

For more information about our eating disorder treatment program, please schedule an appointment. You may also call (603) 890-2724 for more information.

Anorexia nervosa

Anorexia nervosa is a potentially lethal eating disorder characterized by an unwillingness to maintain a healthy body weight. These attitudes and behaviors can be seen with or without purging behaviors, such as self-induced vomiting, laxative abuse, diuretic abuse or over-exercising. A few signs and symptoms of anorexia nervosa include:

• Brittle hair or nails
• Constipation
• Depression
• Distorted body image
• Dizziness or fainting after standing
• Fine growth of hair on the face and chest
• Hair loss
• Intense fear of weight gain
• Slow heart rate
• Unusual eating behaviors
• Yellow skin color

Bulimia nervosa

Bulimia nervosa is a potentially life-threatening eating disorder. It is characterized by episodes of eating unusually large amounts of food followed by behaviors such as purging, fasting or excessive exercise. Some signs and symptoms of bulimia nervosa include:

• Acid reflux
• Constipation
• Decreased ability to focus
• Depression or mood swings
• Diarrhea
• Distorted body image
• Irregular menstrual periods
• Mouth, teeth, gum and throat problems