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How to Recognize Signs of an Eating Disorder

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  • Child seems to have a lack of control when eating, often eating past their "full" comfort level, yet does not gain weight;
  • You see and/or hear the child vomit up the food they have just eaten; or you notice the child constantly goes to the bathroom immediately after eating;
  • Child has an unhealthy relationship with food including sneaking food when no one is around, wanting to eat alone in their room, etc.
  • Child hides food and/or you notice food disappearing;
  • Bloodshot eyes and/or blisters on the hands or fingers from where the child inserted them into the mouth to induce vomiting;
  • Exercises excessively;
  • Experiences mood swings;
  • Unhealthy focus and concern about their physical appearance; and
  • Depression.

It is important to recognize the signs of bulimia because of the devastating effects it can have on a child's body. Some of them include:

  • Weight gain (many children and adults with bulimia are actually at a normal weight, fluctuate weight constantly, or are slightly overweight)
  • Tooth decay and mouth sores
  • Damage to the heart
  • Chronic sore throat (from vomiting)
  • Swollen cheeks and salivary glands
  • Ulcers
  • Ruptured stomach or esophagus
  • Chronic constipation (if laxatives are involved)