Eating Disorders

Importance: Eating disorders are characterized by disturbances in eating behavior and occur worldwide, with a lifetime prevalence of 2% to 5%. They are more common among females than males and may be associated with medical and psychiatric complications, impaired functioning, and decreased quality of life. Observations: Common eating disorders include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge-eating disorder, and avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder. These disorders may be associated with changes in weight, electrolyte abnormalities (eg, hyponatremia, hypokalemia), bradycardia, disturbances in reproductive hormones (eg, decreased estradiol levels in females), and decreased bone density. Individuals with…