Focus on .... Purging Disorder

Focus on..... Purging Disorder (PD)

Purging Disorder is a fairly newly recognised eating disorder/disordered eating initially coined by Pamela Keel from Florida State University. It is currently still classified under the EDNOS (Eating Disorder Not Other Specific) or OSFED (Other Specific Food and Eating Disorder).

Despite PD being recognised only relatively recently, prevalence may be as high as anorexia (AN) or bulimia (BN).

PD differs from AN in that individual is typically not underweight (although, as we know, not everyone experiencing anorexia is underweight).  PD compares with BN in that the individual does not eat large amounts of food before purging. PD is more common in those identifying as female than as male and those experiencing PD typically fall within normal weight ranges.

Purging Disorder is often characterised by the following:

* Recurrent and repeated purging (e.g. laxative/diuretic abuse, self-induced vomiting or enemas)

* Do not engage in bingeing or consume large quantities of food before purging. * Frequently visiting bathroom after eating (engage in self-induced vomiting)

* Exhibiting signs of frequent self-induced vomiting (e.g. calluses on knuckles, if fingers are used to induce vomiting).

* Other physical, visible signs of purging, including: swollen cheeks and neck; broken blood vessels in eyes; teeth that look ‘clear’ (from acid content in vomit)

Some complication that may arise from Purging Disorder include:

* Electrolyte imbalances (e.g. sodium and potassium)

* Anaemia

* Low blood pressure

* Stomach ulcers       ·       

* Dehydration

* Mouth sores and ulcers        ·          

* Irregular heart beat      ·           

*Lethargy and fatigue

* Damage to oesophagus           

* Kidney infections & damage

* Weakened heart muscle and possible heart failure

* Intestinal problems e.g. constipation, diarrhoea.

* Impaired vision (from broken blood vessels in eyes)

* Muscle weakness

These behaviours and actions can quickly and easily affect life in many different ways: secretiveness; disrupting social life; mood changes; sleep disturbances; effect on concentration and motivation; as well as many other emotional and physical complications, including some of those highlighted above.

These complication can cause serious health and physical implications in the long term. Evidence and research suggest that the earlier someone gets help and support with the eating disorder/disordered eating, the more likely they will get better and improve their quality of life and health and wellbeing.

If you would like to talk to one of our experienced and qualified therapists and counsellors about your experiences and what you are going through, please feel free to get in touch. We 'get it' and we never judge. We work with you, at your pace, in accordance with your needs and problems. We are here to listen and support you through the difficult times.

Feel free to contact us as follows:

www.eatingdisorderscotland.co.uk

support@eatingdisorderscotland.co.uk

Your voice counts. 

 Best wishes, Alexandra