Management Of Eating Disorders

Medications

Oral medication isn't used to directly treat an eating disorder, but rather to help control any urges to binge or purge. They can also be used to help reduce any preoccupations and obsessions with food and diet. When these obsessions are reduced, then the resulting abnormal behaviour will also be reduced.

The medications which are used are antidepressants, such as the SSRI's, or anti-anxiety medications which are used to reduce the symptoms of depression and anxiety as these can be associated with eating disorders. 

Psychotherapy

This form of management is used to help replace abnormal and unhealthy thoughts and behaviours with more acceptable ones. There are 2 forms of therapy which are incorporated in the management of eating disorders and they are as follows:

• Cognitive behaviour therapy (CBT) - this form of therapy is used to teach the patient how to monitor their eating habits and their moods, to develop skills in problem-solving and to find healthy and appropriate ways to deal and cope with stressful situations.
• Family-based therapy (FBT) - this form of therapy is an evidence-based treatment for children and teenagers where the family is involved. Here, the family members are involved in making sure that the patient follows healthy eating habits and maintains a healthy weight. It's very important that the patient's family is highly involved as their support will result in a more favourable outcome for the patient.

Anxiety reducing techniques can also help reduce stress levels, increase a sense of well-being and promote relaxation. These may include massage therapy, yoga, acupuncture, meditation, prayer and breathing exercises.

Nutritional advice and weight normalization and maintenance 

The first thing that must be achieved in patients who are underweight is to get their weight back to a healthy level. Regardless of a patient's weight, a dietitian can provide information on following a healthy diet, help design a unique eating plan to help the patient achieve their ideal weight and prescribe any necessary supplements which may be needed.

Following up with a dietitian is important so that the patient's weight is monitored, and so that they may make any adjustments to the patient's diet if needed. 

READ Binge There, Done That: Comfort Eating vs Binge Eating Disorder

Hospitalization in psychiatric or acute ward

If the eating disorder has resulted in the patient experiencing health related complications, then they may need to be hospitalized in order to manage those issues. These complications may include the following:

• Severe malnutrition.
• Multiple vitamin deficiencies.
• Digestive and/or cardiac related issues.
• Substance abuse.
• Depression and/or anxiety.
• Problems with development and growth.
• Suicidal thoughts and behaviours.
• Social and relationship problems.
• Work or school related issues.