Eating Disorders - Binge-Eating Medical Management and Treatment

Course Summary

A binge-eating disorder is characterized by recurrent episodes of binging on food and involves continuous eating despite not feeling hungry and until uncomfortably full, often eating secretively, and consuming wide varieties of food. People who binge-eat frequently have feelings of guilt related to uncontrolled, dysfunctional eating patterns. Psychopathology can include corresponding anxiety and depression, and those with an eating disorder typically have poor psychosocial coping skills. Binge-eating does not always correspond with obesity, but obesity is commonly seen, contributing to comorbid health concerns. The treatment of binge-eating involves medical and psychiatric management to assist patients to recognize dysfunctional eating patterns and to improve self-confidence in their ability to self-regulate eating and improve their health.