Eating disorders — physical risks

Anorexia nervosa: bradycardia, hypotension, hypothermia, orthostatic changes, lanugo, amenorrhea, osteoporosis. Cardiac complications are the leading cause of death. Bulimia and purging: hypokalemia, metabolic alkalosis, dental erosion, parotid swelling, esophageal tears. Refeeding syndrome: phosphate, potassium and magnesium fall sharply when nutrition restarts too fast. Risk of arrhythmia, heart failure and seizures. Advance calories slowly and check electrolytes daily during the first week.

Clinical content reviewed by Ducamelle Louis, Registered Nurse