How is purging disorder diagnosed?
Purging disorder is not currently recognized as a distinct psychiatric disorder in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-5). However, the DSM-5 acknowledges that some individuals with eating disorders engage in purging behaviors as a way to control their weight or shape. These individuals may be diagnosed with an eating disorder not otherwise specified (EDNOS).
There are no specific criteria for diagnosing purging disorder. However, clinicians may consider a diagnosis of purging disorder if an individual exhibits the following behaviors:
• Recurrent purging behavior (e.g., self-induced vomiting, misuse of laxatives, diuretics, or enemas) despite normal body weight or shape
• Intense fear of gaining weight or becoming fat
• Distress about body shape or size
• Unhealthy efforts to control weight or shape (e.g., restrictive eating, compulsive exercise)
In order to make a diagnosis of purging disorder, clinicians must rule out other potential causes of purging behavior, such as bulimia nervosa or anorexia nervosa. Purging disorder is distinct from bulimia nervosa in that individuals with purging disorder do not binge eat. Additionally, purging disorder is distinct from anorexia nervosa in that individuals with purging disorder do not have a persistent fear of gaining weight or becoming fat.
If you think you may have purging disorder, it is important to seek professional help. Eating disorders are serious mental illnesses that can have devastating consequences if left untreated. Early intervention and treatment are essential for recovering from an eating disorder..Click here for more
What to do if you think you have purging disorder.
If you think you may have purging disorder, the first step is to speak with a mental health professional. This disorder is characterized by an intense fear of weight gain and compulsive behaviors aimed at preventing weight gain, such as self-induced vomiting and over-exercising. These behaviors can lead to physical and psychological problems, such as electrolyte imbalances, problems with tooth enamel, and body dysmorphic disorder. If you are struggling with purging disorder, there is help available and treatment can be effective.
Visit mengeredstoo.co.uk to learn more about purging disorder. Disclaimer: We used this website as a reference for this blog post.