Anorexia Nervosa (Eating Disorders)
It has been estimated
that more than 10 million Americans currently are affected by serious eating
disorders such as anorexia, bulimia and binge eating. While anyone can suffer
from an eating disorder, they are most common in teen and young adult women. Eating
disorders can have a large negative impact on an individual’s quality of life.
Self-image, relationships with families and friends as well as performance in
school or on the job can be damaged. It is critical for anyone with symptoms of an
eating disorder to seek professional help since an individual can die from the
medical complications these disorders can cause.
Types
of Eating Disorders
Anorexia typically involves an extreme fear of gaining weight or a dread
of becoming fat. Even though these individuals may be very thin or even
extremely underweight, they see themselves as “fat.” They may attempt to reach
or maintain what they think is their perfect body weight by literally starving
themselves. They may also exercise excessively. Others may eat excessive
amounts of food in one sitting and then attempt to get rid of the food and calories from their bodies by forcing themselves to “throw up” or by the
misuse of laxatives or enemas.
Bulimia also includes the fears of being overweight. But it also
includes hidden periods of overeating (binge eating) which may occur several
times a week or even several times a day. While overeating, individuals may
feel completely out of control. They may gulp down thousands of calories often
high in carbohydrates and fat – in amounts of food that would be greater than
what an average person would eat at one sitting. After they overeat, the
individuals try to “undo” the fact that they ate too much as quickly as
possible by forcing themselves to “throw up” or by the misuse of laxatives or
enemas. This is often referred to as “bingeing and purging.”
Binge
Eating or Compulsive Overeating may affect almost as many men as women. In the past, these
individuals were sometimes described as “food addicts.” They overeat (binge
eat) as noted in bulimia above, but do not regularly try to get rid of the food
immediately by throwing up or by misusing laxatives or enemas. Feelings of
guilt may make it easier for the person to overeat again.
Each of these eating disorders can rob the body of adequate
minerals, vitamins, proteins and other nutrients needed for good health.
Individuals with eating disorders can display a number of symptoms including
dramatic loss of weight, secretive eating patterns, hair loss, feeling cold, constipation
and, for women, the loss of their monthly menstrual period. Eating disorders
may also cause numerous other physical health complications, such as heart
conditions or kidney failure, which can lead to death.
Eating disorders can also affect oral health. Without the proper
nutrition, gums and other soft tissue inside your mouth may bleed easily. The
glands that produce saliva may swell. Individuals may experience chronic dry
mouth. Throwing up frequently can affect teeth, too. When strong stomach acid
repeatedly flows over teeth, the tooth’s outer covering (enamel) can be lost to
the point that the teeth change in color, shape and length. The edges of teeth
become thin and break off easily. Eating hot or cold food or drink may become
uncomfortable.
Photographs
Prevention
Eating disorders arise from a variety of physical, emotional and
social issues all of which need to be addressed to help prevent and treat these
disorders. Family and friends can help by setting good examples about eating
and offering positive comments about healthy eating practices. While eating disorders appear to
focus on body image, food and weight, they are often related to many other
issues. Referral to health professionals and encouragement to seek treatment is
critical as early diagnosis and intervention greatly improve the opportunities
for recovery.
·
Maintain meticulous oral health care related to toothbrushing
and flossing.
·
Immediately after throwing up, do NOT brush but rinse with
baking soda to help neutralize the effects of the stomach acid.
·
Consult with your dentist about your specific treatment needs.
·
See your dentist regularly.
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