Sample Essay On Eating Disorders

Anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa are the two rare eating disorders, which occur commonly in the previously healthy women who are over conscious about their body shape and weight. The disorders have various similarities, which distinguish them as similar disorders. Both Anorexia nervosa and Bulimia nervosa are prevalent in cultures where food is abundant and being thin is the characteristic of attractiveness. Binge eating is a common symptom of both the disorders. Cardiovascular changes, such as low blood pressure and decreased heart rate are the consequences of both the disorders; however, the percentage of occurrence is more in anorexia nervosa when compared to bulimia nervosa . Dermatological changes, such as dry skin and hair loss are common in both the disorders.
There are various differences between anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa. In anorexia nervosa, the patient refuses maintaining a minimal body weight for the height and age. The patients fear of gaining excess weight even though they are normal in weight or underweight. On the other hand, in bulimia nervosa, patients show repeated episodes of binge eating. While the onset of anorexia nervosa is mid adolescence, the onset of bulimia nervosa is adulthood or late adolescence . The patients with anorexia nervosa show signs of amenorrhea while it is absent in patients with bulimia nervosa. Antisocial behavior is a common symptom in bulimia nervosa patients, while anorexia nervosa patients are socially active. Hormonal imbalances are common in anorexia nervosa patients while it is usually rare in bulimia nervosa patients. Patients with anorexia nervosa undergo the treatment of psychotherapy, which includes family therapy. On the other hand, patients with bulimia nervosa undergo cognitive therapy and behavioral therapy in addition to the administration of antidepressant drugs. Thus, the two eating disorders have various similarities as well as differences.

Work Cited

Swain, Pamela I. Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa: New Research. New York: Nova Publishers, 2006.