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Eating Disorders

Symptoms and treatment of anorexia, bulimia, and binge-eating disorder.

Written by: Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board
Last updated:

This content has been compiled by the Saygı Hospital Health Guide Editorial Board and is periodically reviewed by a specialist physician.

References (5)

This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. You can book an appointment at our Psikiyatri department. Book Appointment →

What is Eating Disorders?

Eating disorders are a group of serious, chronic psychiatric disorders related to eating behaviors, body weight, and body image. The most common types are anorexia nervosa (extreme food avoidance and fear of gaining weight), bulimia nervosa (binge-purge cycle), and binge-eating disorder.

Anorexia nervosa has one of the highest mortality rates among all psychiatric disorders. Cardiac arrhythmias, bone loss, and organ failure are among the serious medical complications.

Eating disorders are not a matter of weak willpower or personality; they are serious medical conditions arising from interactions of biological, psychological, and social factors. Multidisciplinary treatment (psychiatry, dietitian, internal medicine) gives the best results.

Symptoms

In anorexia: severe weight loss and intense fear of gaining weight
In bulimia: secret binge episodes and vomiting or laxative use
Severe body image disturbance (feeling fat despite weight loss)
Food rituals and avoidance of social meals
Excessive control over food consumed and calorie counting
Frequent weight changes, fatigue, hair loss, dental erosion

Risk Factors

Young female sex (but also occurs in males)
Perfectionistic and control-oriented personality
Family history of eating disorders or obesity
Aesthetic or performance-focused sports (ballet, gymnastics)
Bullying or criticism aimed at appearance
Social media pressure and the thin-body ideal

When to See a Doctor?

If you experience any of the following symptoms, seek medical attention promptly:

  • Severe weight loss or fainting requires emergency care
  • Palpitations, muscle cramps (signs of electrolyte disturbance)
  • When the person is preoccupied with thoughts about food all day
  • When eating habits are kept secret and social life is restricted

Treatment Methods

01
Medical stabilization and nutritional support (inpatient care in severe cases)
02
Individual psychotherapy (CBT, family-based therapy — especially in adolescents)
03
Nutritional counseling
04
Family therapy
05
SSRI medications (especially effective in bulimia)
06
Long-term multidisciplinary follow-up

Which Department to Visit?

You can visit our Psikiyatri department for these complaints. Our specialist physicians will create the most suitable treatment plan for you.

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Health Disclaimer: The information on this page is prepared for general informational purposes only. It does not replace medical diagnosis and treatment. Please consult your physician for your complaints. Saygı Hospital does not accept responsibility for actions taken based on the information on this page.