ENES - Experten-Netzwerk-Essstörungen Schweiz

Medical Aspects

The management of eating disorders must address physical health issues and be conducted in close collaboration with specialists in somatic disciplines.

Symptoms 

Eating disorders are associated with numerous physical complications, including:

  • Circulatory system effects and cardiac arrhythmias
  • Electrolyte disturbances
  • Weakened immune function:
    • Impaired blood-forming systems increase susceptibility to infections. 
  • Hormonal imbalances:
    • Changes in thyroid hormones, growth hormones, and sex hormones can disrupt menstrual cycles, fertility, libido, and bone growth. 
  • Tooth enamel damage and decay:
    • Repeated vomiting exposes teeth to stomach acid, heightening the risk of tooth decay and structural damage. 

Parameter 

To evaluate the vital risks associated with underweight and vomiting, the following parameters should be assessed:

  • Body Temperature
  • Peripheral Circulation and Edema
  • Heart Function (Auscultation and Orthostasis Test)
  • Blood Count and Sedimentation Rate
  • Urea, electrolytes, and Creatinine Levels
  • Liver Function Tests
  • Blood Glucose Levels
  • Urine status 
  • Electrocardiogram (ECG)

Diagnostics

Medical evaluations for patients with eating disorders should include at least the following assessments:

  • Body height and weight:
    Measured to calculate BMI or percentile curves (for children and adolescents) to classify nutritional status. 
  • Blood pressure and pulse