Diagnosing Complications of Eating Disorders
Once a diagnosis is made, physicians should immediately check for any serious complications of starvation/ bingeing/ purging. They should also rule out other medical problems that might be causing the symptoms of an eating disorder (e.g. a hyperactive thyroid or diabetes). Tests may include some of the following:
- A complete blood count.
- Tests for electrolyte imbalances. Low potassium levels indicate that the disorder is more likely to be accompanied by the binge-purge syndrome.
- Test for protein levels.
- An electrocardiogram and a chest x-ray.
- Tests for liver, kidney, and thyroid problems.
- A bone density test.
Chantelle
Now that i've overcome anorexia there's no way i ever want to go back there. I remember all that was important for me was being thin and that I'd be able to see my protruding bones in the mirror...
Malcolm
Most children are either fat or thin. I was the former. This wasn't a problem until I started to realize that it was more acceptable to be thin. This realization made me want...
Emma
I began my recovery journey from anorexia when I was 16 years old. It was a gradual process and a hard one, but once I truly felt that I wanted to get better and be healthy and happy, the steps moved quicker...