Mother Has Anorexia, What Is The Proper Management?

Dear Ask The Doctor: Hi, my Mother was diagnosed with Anorexia Nervosa several years ago, however she insists that this diagnosis is incorrect. She eats very little, is extremly secretive about her eating habits (especially after her treatment), and explodes with anger if we confront her about it. My question is this: is the diagnosis of Anorexia Nervosa 'black and white' or is there a good chance that she has in fact been mis-diagnosed? Also, do you have any advice on how to approach her on the subject? Thanks.

Dear Mark: I understand your concern about your mother's health. Anorexia nervosa is a mental illness characterised by preoccupation with body-weight and shape, leading to a failure to maintain normal body weight, fear of becoming fat and a distorted perception that one is overweight leading to a refusal in maintaining a normal body-weight.

Anorexia is diagnosed by a doctor/psychiatrist after a thorough history and physical examination. There are certain diagnostic criterias that are needed for the diagnosis of anorexia.

i) Refusal to maintain bodyweight greater than minimally normal (<85%) weight for age and height.

ii) Intense fear of weight gain or becoming fat, even though underweight.

iii) Disturbance in the way body-weight, size, shape or shape is experienced, denial of seriousness of current low body-weight.

Taking steps towards recovery from anorexia is a major undertaking. It requires co-operation and support from family, friends, doctor and the community. The treatment goal is to restore your mother's weight to approximately 90% of predicted ideal weight, treat any physical complications, address dysfunctional beliefs, instill self esteem and prevent relapse.

I would suggest that you or any other family memeber do not confront your mother about her eating habits, which will make it worse. The therapy should be carried out by a team of professionals experienced in treating eating disorders, which includes a psychiatrist and a nutritionist.