Eating disorders

Definition

Eating disorders are severe mental health conditions characterized by abnormal eating habits that negatively affect physical and emotional health. Common types include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge-eating disorder.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Eating disorders can lead to serious cardiovascular complications such as arrhythmias, heart failure, and sudden cardiac arrest.
2. Malnutrition from eating disorders often results in electrolyte imbalances that can be detrimental to heart function.
3. Patients with anorexia nervosa frequently exhibit bradycardia (slow heart rate) due to severe malnutrition.
4. Bulimia nervosa can cause electrolyte disturbances, such as hypokalemia (low potassium), which increases the risk of cardiac arrhythmias.
5. Proper nutrition and early intervention are crucial in managing the cardiovascular risks associated with eating disorders.

Review Questions

• What are common cardiovascular complications associated with eating disorders?
• How does malnutrition from eating disorders affect electrolyte balance and heart function?
• Why is early nutritional intervention important for patients with eating disorders?

Related terms

Anorexia Nervosa: A type of eating disorder characterized by self-starvation and excessive weight loss.

Bulimia Nervosa: An eating disorder involving cycles of bingeing and purging behaviors to control weight.

Electrolyte Imbalance: A condition where there is an abnormal level of electrolytes in the body, affecting various bodily functions including heart rhythm.