Eating Disorder Treatment Can Address These Issues In Teens

Eating disorders are all too common in teenagers. Anorexia is a common eating disorders found in teens, but it is certainly not the only one. In fact, many teenagers go to treatment for other eating disorders, including bulimia and binge eating disorder. These are three reasons why you might choose eating disorder treatment for your teenager.

Anorexia

Anorexia nervosa is often linked to very low body weight, which often goes unrecognized by the teenager who has the condition. Often, parents and others close to the teenager are the first to notice that something might be wrong.

A common symptom of anorexia is restriction of food intake and calories. You might also notice your teen frequently weighing themself or exercising compulsively. You may notice that in spite of the fact that your child says they are eating, they are losing weight. Anorexia is dangerous because it can often cause thin bones, brain damage, and low blood pressure. Treatment for anorexia is critical, as failing to get treatment can by deadly.

Bulimia

Bulimia nervosa often includes binge eating and purging. Your child might eat in front of you, but they may find ways to purge after the fact. Purging can come in the form of vomiting or taking laxatives.

Often, people with bulimia appear to be an average weight, but they may express worries about their weight and appearance. They may also keep habits, like purging or eating, a secret. Your child may also exhibit dehydration, tooth decay, and stomach problems if they are living with bulimia. Treatment is important for healthy living.

Binge Eating Disorder

Binge eating disorder includes the binge eating symptom found in bulimia, but it does not include purging behavior. For this reason, you may see a significant weight increase in your child, perhaps in a way that appears unhealthy.

Symptoms include eating during times of stress or high emotions. This can result in eating large amounts of food, like an entire cake, in one or few sittings. If your teenager binge eats, they may be at higher risk for heart disease and high blood pressure later in life. It could also be indicative of another concern, like a mental health issue that can be addressed in treatment.

Treatment Is Available for Eating Disorders

A treatment center may be the best place for your teenager. A professional can help your child with anorexia and other eating disorders so that they can build a healthy and happy relationship with food. Look for an eating disorder treatment your teen would be interested in.