Binge eating
Alternative Names
Eating - bingeHome Care
Take measures to reduce stress and improve overall health.
Medication is usually not necessary for this disorder. However, antidepressants, as prescribed by a doctor, are often helpful. Supportive care and counseling are recommended. Individual, group, family, and behavioral therapy may provide some help.
When to Contact a Medical Professional
- bulimia is suspected
The health care provider will perform a physical examination. A history of the person's eating patterns may be sought from one or more family members because the person may not acknowledge that they are binge eating.
Medical history questions documenting binge eating in detail may include:
- How long has this been occurring?
- Are "purge" behaviors (such as self-induced vomiting or laxative abuse) also present?
- What other symptoms are also present?
Possible diagnostic tests include blood studies, such as electrolyte levels.
INTERVENTION
Behavior is usually controlled with counseling, biofeedback training (a process of monitoring body functions and altering these functions through relaxation), and individual or group psychotherapy.
References
Schmidt U, Lee S, Beecham J, et al. A randomized controlled trial of family therapy and cognitive behavior therapy guided self-care for adolescents with bulimia nervosa and related disorders.Am J Psychiatry. 2007;164:591-598.
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