Eating Disorder Symptoms

Eating disorder symptoms should be taken seriously. The symptoms listed below are not for self-diagnosis. However, if you find you have any of these symptoms, please see a doctor for a diagnosis. They are signs that something else underneath needs attention.

Even if you have not developed a full blown eating disorder, this doesn't mean that you shouldn't get help. Don't be embarrassed to seek help even if your symptoms seem minor. They can develop into more something more serious very quickly.

These symptoms are difficult to tackle, so please don't try to do it alone. They can become severe and even fatal. The more serious your symptoms are, the more serious danger is present for your health and well being. Get help now. There are several types of treatment options available. Above all, consider allowing God to help you. He understands your symptoms more than anyone, and He also understands you and what you need more than anyone. He stands ready to help and heal you.

Anorexia Symptoms

Behavioral symptoms of anorexia

• Restricting food intake or even starving oneself
• Exercising excessively
• Preoccupation with food
• Eating only safe foods
• Rigid eating rituals
• Social withdrawal
• Intense fear of gaining weight
• Lack of emotion
• Obsession with weight
• Obsession with counting calories
• Negative or distorted body image
• Perfectionistic tendencies
• Loss of sexual desire
• Depression
• Low opinion of self
• Taking diet pills

Physical symptoms of anorexia

• Thinness
• Dizziness or fainting
• Constipation
• Abdominal pain
• Menstrual irregularities
• Dry skin
• Low blood pressure
• Dehydration
• Irregular heart rhythms
• Frequently being cold
• Soft, downy hair on the body
• Fatigue
• Brittle nails
• Hair that thins, breaks or falls out
• Insomnia

Bulimia Symptoms

Behavioral symptoms of bulimia

• Exercising excessively
• Use of laxatives or enemas
• Self-induced vomiting
• Going to the bathroom during or after meals
• Constant dieting or fasting
• Hiding food to consume later
• Low opinion of self
• Depression
• Insomnia
• Negative or distorted body image
• Obsession with weight
• Repeatedly eating large amounts of sweet or high-fat foods
• Feeling out of control of eating behavior

Physical symptoms of bulimia

• Abnormal bowel functioning
• Damaged teeth and gums
• Dehydration
• Irregular heartbeat
• Menstrual irregularities
• Swollen salivary glands in the cheeks
• Sores in the throat and mouth
• Sores, scars or calluses on the knuckles or hands
• Constipation
• Incontinence

Binge Eating Disorder Symptoms

Behavioral symptoms of binge eating disorder

• Fear of not being able to control eating or of not being able to stop
• Fear of eating in the presence of others
• Eating to the point of discomfort or pain
• Eating faster during binge episodes
• Feeling life will be better if weight loss occurs
• Hoarding food for consumption later
• Always trying diet plans
• Secretive eating patterns
• Getting down on oneself after eating
• Blame failures on weight
• Believing food is one's only friend

Physical symptoms of binge eating disorder

• Weight gain
• Leg and joint pain
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol
• Loss of sexual desire
• Excessive sweating
• Shortness of breath
• Decreased mobility
• Insomnia
• Depression
• Fatigue
• Mood swings

EDNOS (Eating Disorders not Otherwise Specified) Symptoms

• The symptoms of EDNOS can vary from one person to another An individual with EDNOS may have many of the same symptoms as someone with anorexia
• An individual with EDNOS may have many of the same symptoms as someone with bulimia
• While the symptoms of EDNOS can vary a lot, it is just as serious as anorexia, bulimia or binge eating disorder
• EDNOS, just like other related disorders, can seriously damage one's health

By: Laurie Glass