A Chance To Heal::Reference Guide

This information provided as reference material only. This site should not be relied upon as a comprehensive guide for treating eating disorders.

Physician Reference Guide

Compiled and written by Dr. Roz Kaplan, Dr. David Steinman, and Dr. Jane Shure
Printable Version [Microsoft Word]

Anorexia Nervosa - Bulimia Nervosa - Binge Eating Disorder - Compulsive Overeating - Eating Disorder NOS

All adolescents
Women under 45
Relatives of those with eating disorders or substance abuse issues
Patients who have been sexually abused
Patients with history of self-harm
Athletes, particularly those participating in track, gymnastics, crew, wrestling
Dancers
Females with amenorrhea
Anyone with a history of chronic childhood illness

Do you have concerns with your weight or body image?
Have you dieted to lose weight?
Has your weight changed more than 20 pounds up or down over the last year?
Do you skip meals?
What is your exercise like?
How often do you weigh yourself?
Have you ever made yourself throw up or take Ipecac to induce vomiting?
Have you ever taken laxatives?
Have you ever taken water pills?
Have you ever taken diet pills?
Do you ever overeat to the point of being uncomfortably full?
Do you ever feel ashamed of your eating behavior?
Have others expressed concern about your weight, eating habits, or exercise habits?

Refer to therapist and nutritionist who are experienced with eating disorders.
Talk to those you refer to. It will save you time in the long run and contribute to a better outcome.
If there is concomitant depression, self harm, suicidal ideation or eating disorder is severe, refer for psychiatric evaluation.
Followup: 1-2 weeks after initial diagnosis. At least every 2 weeks until weight and labs stable. Then monthly until recovery is well established.