2024-02-29 08:42:30
Eating disorders can cause changes in the heart that increase the lifelong risk of cardiovascular disease. This is primarily due to malnutrition in anorexia and electrolyte imbalances in bulimia.
Prof. Dr. Philip Mehler, founder and medical director of an eating disorder center in Denver, explains: “The heart is severely affected by weight loss and malnutrition. The more serious the disease, the more likely heart complications are.” These can range from a slow heart rate to heart failure.
Different eating disorders affect the heart differently. For example, malnutrition and weight loss in anorexia can cause the heart muscle to shrink and the heart rate to slow to less than 60 beats per minute at rest (bradycardia). “The heart atrophies,” explains Mehler. “It slows down like a bear in hibernation. And that can be dangerous.”
In bulimia, however, frequent vomiting and laxatives lead to an electrolyte imbalance, which increases the risk of cardiac arrhythmias, heart failure (heart failure), and sudden cardiac death.
Many people with eating disorders experience a rapid heartbeat, dizziness, lightheadedness, heart palpitations, and other symptoms when standing because a reduced amount of blood flows back to the heart.
“Parents and loved ones should be alert if someone obsesses regarding their weight, exercises compulsively, frequently leaves the table during meals to go to the bathroom, or wears loose clothing to hide how thin they have become.” says Mehler. “Symptoms of an eating disorder also include lightheadedness, chest pain, shortness of breath, frequent nosebleeds and lack of energy.”
People with an eating disorder and cardiovascular complications need medical attention for heart problems that can be life-threatening. At the same time, the causes must be treated. Mehler warns not to blame those affected for the eating disorder: “These are not disorders that you choose, and we have to recognize that.” Depending on the severity, different help is needed. “If you have a mild eating disorder, see a therapist. If it’s more serious, call an eating disorder center. And if it is extreme, contact a hospital that has expertise and competence in this area,” advises Mehler.
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