News reports are full of stories about the obesity epidemic, but equally as concerning is the opposite end of the spectrum eating disorders. When we think of eating disorders, we often think of anorexia where the person avoids eating; bulimia characterized by binging and purging, or the use of copious amounts of laxatives to bring on extreme weight loss. In its most basic definition, an eating disorder is an unhealthy relationship with weight and food.

Eating disorders are nothing new. What is on the radar of physicians currently, though, is people whose efforts to fight obesity turn into an unhealthy obsession with food and weight loss that turns dangerous.

According to an article in the Wall Street Journal, a study at a Barcelona Hospital found nearly 38 percent of people admitted to the hospital with an eating disorder were previously overweight. In 2001 only 13 percent of eating disorder patients had been overweight. A similar study in Australia echoed these findings.

Understanding Eating Disorders
The focus of eating disorders is obviously centered on food and weight, but the issue often runs much deeper and speaks to severe psychological issues. When eating disorders become severe, they can be fatal. But even when the disorder is less severe, it brings with it a host of health concerns.

Anorexia
Among the most severe dangers of anorexia are slowed heart rate and blood pressure, which may ultimately lead to heart failure. Another serious concern is what the nutrient deficiency does to bones. Brittle bones and osteoporosis are common consequences of anorexia.

Other health concerns include dehydration resulting in kidney failure, fainting, weakness, hair loss and muscle loss.

Bulimia
The binging and purging of bulimia pose serious dangers to the digestive system and ultimately can lead to severe chemical imbalances that damage the heart and other organs. The severe vomiting also causes dehydration and electrolyte imbalances that can also lead to heart failure.

Other risks of bulimia include gastric rupture brought on by vomiting, tooth decay from stomach acids, irregular bowel movements and ulcers.

Overcoming Eating Disorders
Theres no one size fits all approach to treating eating disorders. The most effective way to treat these conditions, though, generally involve psychiatric counseling or other forms of psychotherapy done on an individual basis as well as support groups. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) has been shown to be especially effective in treating bulimia.

Along with addressing the psychological side of the condition, eating disorders often result in a plethora of nutritional deficiencies that require attention by a nutritionist. In some cases hospitalization may be needed to address sever weight loss and nutrient deficiency. Another more unique approach to treating anorexia in teens involves the parents of the patient taking responsibility for feeding their child.

Antidepressants, antipsychotics and mood stabilizers have been shown in some cases to help patients with anorexia overcome the anxiety issues that go along with the condition.

Treating an eating disorder is often a lifelong battle that requires constant attention especially in times of high stress that could trigger a relapse.