Symptoms

Three types of eating disorders have been recognized; however, it is important to note that some people can show signs of more than one eating disorder at different times:

• Anorexia nervosa is characterized by a refusal to maintain a body weight above the normal minimum weight for age and height. It results from an extreme weight-reduction program, often combined with intense physical exercise and induced vomiting. Anorexia is also associated with an intense fear of gaining weight and a distortion of body image. 

• Bulimia nervosa is characterized by episodes of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviour to avoid weight gain: vomiting, use of laxatives, excessive exercise, etc. People with bulimia consequently experience frequent weight fluctuations. 

• Bulimic hyperphagia is characterized by binge-eating episodes accompanied by feelings of guilt and shame. Weight-reduction programs and depression are often related to this syndrome. 

When eating disorders are not treated, they can have serious physical, psychological and social consequences.