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Appetite disorders, also referred to eating disorders, are a broad range of conditions categorized by eating, exercise and body weight or shape becoming an unhealthy preoccupation of someone’s life.
Eating disorders can affect a wide range of the population, regardless of age, gender or ethnic background.
Eating disorders can take many forms including:
Each appetite or eating disorder is associated with specific symptoms however there are common symptoms throughout all eating disorders. Some symptoms of eating disorders include:
Appetite or eating disorders are complex illnesses with no single cause. They occur due to a combination of biological, genetic and environmental factors. The following may increase the risk of developing an eating disorder:
Appetite or eating disorders are diagnosed from speaking to a patient to understand their symptoms in full, however other conditions may mimic eating disorders and it is important to rule these out with further tests if suspected.
Questionnaires are a commonly used tool to assess the severity of the eating disorder. They are also useful in monitoring response to treatment.
Appetite Disorders Treatment
Recovery from an appetite disorder is challenging and unfortunately can be a slow, arduous process for those suffering. Treatment involves trying to balance a regular and balanced eating pattern with exploring and addressing underlying emotional problems.
Evidence shows that the earlier treatment is started the more successful it will be.
There are a range of psychological treatment approaches, which may include: motivational therapy, cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) and interpersonal therapy.
Medications such as anti-depressants or anti-psychotics may occasionally be considered alongside psychological therapies for certain patients.
Medicinal cannabis can be considered for specific patients when first line therapies have not achieved adequate benefit.
