What is EDNOS?
We’ve heard of anorexia, and we’ve also discussed bulimia. These happen to be the most commonly known eating disorders. What we don’t know is that there are some other eating disorders which fall in neither of these categories. However, they are equally dangerous. Or maybe even worse. This is because the symptoms of these disorders fall in neither of the illnesses. And so, they may be misdiagnosed or overlooked by the physicians.
‘EDNOS’ is the acronym for Eating Disorders Not Otherwise Specified.
What is EDNOS? Eating Disorders Not Otherwise Specified. It is a mental illness. The common symptoms include distorted body image, binge-purge cycles, and faulty eating habits.
How is EDNOS different from anorexia or bulimia?
The people suffering from EDNOS maybe 87% underweight than their Ideal Body weight. To be considered anorexic they have to be 85% underweight.
Secondly, people with EDNOS may have a binging & purging episode mostly likely once a week. But Bulimic people usually have these episodes for at least twice a week.
EDNOS affects you physically, physiologically and behaviorally.
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How does EDNOS affect your body?
EDNOS has a severe impact on your well-being. It could lead to:
-Rupture of esophagus or stomach due to forceful purging
-Chronic constipation or diarrhea
-Osteoporosis
-Kidney failure
-Irregular heartbeat & high risk of heart failure
-Irregular menstrual cycle or absence of periods due to hormonal imbalance
-Risk of infertility
These people are nervous about the food. They loathe pretty much every bite they take in as if they feel guilty of eating. Even though they have a perfect body, they always think they are over-weight. Most of the time they may avoid socializing due to the fear of being surrounded by food or due to low self-esteem.
It is important to identify these symptoms and seek help as soon as possible. Now you know what is EDNOS. If you know anyone around you who shows symptoms of EDNOS, it is best to help them out immediately.
Since EDNOS has a lot to do with the psychological perceptions, seeking psychiatric help would be beneficial.
Although the process takes long, EDNOS is reversible. It is easier to cure when diagnosed at the earliest.
Read Also – Did You Know How Disturbed Eating Behaviors Affect You?