Eating Disorders: Physical, Emotional & Social Consequences

Eating disorders (anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge-eating disorder, ARFID, OSFED) are serious mental illnesses with profound whole-body effects.

Physical Health Impacts

• Malnutrition: Weight loss, fatigue, weakness, hair loss, brittle nails, dry skin, lanugo, anemia.
• Electrolyte imbalances: Hypokalemia, hyponatremia → arrhythmias, muscle cramps, seizures.
• Cardiac: Bradycardia, hypotension, QT prolongation, cardiomyopathy, sudden cardiac death.
• Endocrine: Amenorrhea, infertility, low estrogen/testosterone, osteoporosis, thyroid dysregulation.
• GI: Gastroparesis, constipation, reflux, pancreatitis, rectal prolapse.
• Renal: Dehydration, acute kidney injury, electrolyte wasting.

Psychological & Social Effects

• Depression, anxiety, OCD traits, body dysmorphia
• Social isolation, secrecy, relationship strain
• Impaired concentration, work/school decline
• Substance misuse (laxatives, diuretics, stimulants)

Recovery Is Possible

Evidence-based treatment: multidisciplinary team (therapist, dietitian, physician, psychiatrist). Modalities: CBT-E, FBT (for adolescents), DBT, nutritional rehabilitation, medical stabilization. Early intervention improves outcomes.