To some, eating disorders may seem like an easy way to lose weight or a solution that has minor drawbacks. I myself felt this way when I fell into disordered eating. Unfortunately, the effects of eating disorders are more severe than “minor drawbacks.”
Statistically, anorexia nervosa has the highest mortality rate of the major eating disorders extensively studied. One study found that the standardized mortality rate of those with anorexia nervosa was 5.35, meaning the subjects were about five times more likely to die in the study period than another person of the same age in the general population. Furthermore, a meta-analysis found that other specified feeding and eating disorder (OSFED) had a standardized mortality rate of 1.92 - lower than anorexia but still harmful. Another study found that the standardized mortality ratios for anorexia nervosa stood between 1.36% and 20%. It is said that patients with anorexia are “more likely to make a serious suicide attempt, with a higher expectation of dying and an increased risk of severity.”
Other Health Problems
Sadly, the cause of death in eating disorders does not end with suicide. Other deadly health problems may arise, as listed below.
Cardiovascular Complications: They make up one-third of all deaths from anorexia. The most common complications are bradycardia (slow heart rate) and hypotension (low blood pressure). Binge eating disorder and bulimia are also linked to a greater risk of cardiovascular disease
Dehydration: Dehydration causes electrolyte imbalances and is often the cause of cardiac issues. In bulimia nervosa, electrolyte imbalance is the most common cause of sudden death.
Refeeding Syndrome: Refeeding syndrome is the shift in fluids and electrolytes in malnourished patients who take artificial feeding. In some cases, this shift can cause respiratory failure, seizures, and death.
Diabetes: The term “diabulimia” describes people with type 1 diabetes who purposely don’t take enough insulin to lose weight. However, this is life-threatening.
Hypoglycemia: Hypoglycemia often goes hand-in-hand with malnutrition. Sudden death with hypoglycemia in eating disorder patients is often associated with other complications.
Suicide: An eating disorder of any kind increases the risk of suicide. Those with anorexia are 18 times more likely to commit suicide and those with bulimia, 7 times more likely.
Malnutrition: The body’s muscle mass decreases, and respiratory and gastrointestinal functioning worsens. The body is unable to function without vitamins, nutrients, and minerals. Other than death, malnutrition is linked with diabetes, heart disease, depression, and anxiety.
Gastrointestinal Disturbances: Commonly, eating disorders cause “decreased gastric mobility and delayed gastric emptying.” In one case study, a single binge episode caused gastric dilatation, a problem that could lead to death.
Treatment
Luckily, there are various styles of treatment. Because recovery is an extremely personal journey, different treatments work well for different patients. Hospitalization, therapy, and medication are the three most common treatments that those with eating disorders receive.
Wrapping Up
Finding healthy support in any shape or form is the biggest lifesaver. Whether it be family, close friends, online communities, your journal, or your therapist, rely on them. Even if they may not express it, the people around you are rooting for you and will not leave you even if you stumble and relapse. You deserve to receive treatment and support.
Learn more about eating disorders from various organizations using this link.
Eating disorders, especially anorexia nervosa, cause many unfortunate endings for millions globally. However, preventative measures can be taken through education, a change in mindset, and open dialogue. “Having an open dialogue—with loved ones, health professionals, and yourself—is important.”
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