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Eating Disorders services offered in Canonsburg, Washington and Philadelphia, PA
Eating disorders are sometimes mistakenly viewed as a purposeful choice that’s easily reversed, but that’s not true and doesn’t reflect reality. Eating disorders require professional care and treatment from the Pioneer Counseling and Consulting team because they’re severe mental health conditions that cause uncontrollable and dangerous eating behaviors. Overcoming an eating disorder demands hard work combined with compassionate and integrative treatments. Schedule an in-person or telehealth appointment by calling the Canonsburg, Washington, or Bala Cynwyd (near Philadelphia), Pennsylvania office or using the online booking feature today.
Eating Disorders Q & A
What are eating disorders?
Eating disorders include several conditions that cause unhealthy eating behaviors. Most of these disorders (especially anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, and binge eating) are associated with issues such as negative body image, extreme concern about weight and shape, and low self-esteem.
Among the most common eating disorders are:
Anorexia nervosa
People with anorexia believe they’re overweight despite being at a healthy weight or even underweight. As a result, they’re compelled to lose weight, which they do by severely limiting the amount they eat.
Some with anorexia vomit after eating (purging) or take laxatives to minimize the effect of any food they eat. They can also exercise excessively.
Bulimia nervosa
People with bulimia eat a large amount of food, and then eliminate the calories by purging (vomiting) the food they have just consumed.
Binge eating disorder
People with this eating disorder regularly binge without purging. As a result, binge eating disorder often causes them to gain weight.
Avoidant or restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID)
People with ARFID avoid certain foods for three primary reasons: They harbor fears or anxiety about food, they’re worried about the consequences of eating, or they have sensory issues.
Which health disorders develop from untreated eating disorders?
Purging can lead to nutritional deficiencies, dehydration, and imbalances in the electrolytes (minerals) that are vital for heart, brain, and muscle function.
Gaining weight due to binge eating disorder significantly increases your risk of chronic health conditions like Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure (hypertension), and heart disease.
Anorexia can cause severe health problems; the lack of food and nutrients can result in:
- Anemia
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Weak immune system
- Thinning bones (osteoporosis)
- Muscle wasting (atrophy)
- Hormone imbalances
- Drop in body temperature
- Lethargy (feeling tired all the time)
- Irregular heartbeat
Without treatment, anorexia can cause life-threatening organ failure.
How are eating disorders treated?
At Pioneer Counseling and Consulting, the team treats eating disorders with compassion and a holistic approach, which includes medication management, therapy, and an eating plan to restore healthy habits gradually.
Following a comprehensive physical and psychiatric evaluation, your provider may run blood work to assess your overall health and identify nutritional deficiencies.
They identify serious health concerns to determine the level of care you need. Your Pioneer Counseling and Consulting provider will refer you to a medical specialist for advanced physical problems and deteriorating health.
Call the nearest office or connect online today to request a consultation, learn more about eating disorders, and start treatment to restore your health.