An alert general practitioner may be able to detect the early signs of the disease and correct the situation by counselling. Careful observation and emotional support from other family members, and regular appointments with the doctor, will hopefully prevent the condition from deteriorating. Unfortunately, because of the deceit these patients practice against themselves and their family, diagnosis is often delayed until they are quite emaciated. Hospitalisation is then required, and an expert team comprising psychiatrists, physicians, social workers, dietitians and nurses set about correcting the patient’s food phobias, poor self image and malnutrition. The cooperation of family and friends in this process is essential for the rapid recovery of the patient. Some drugs may be used to increase appetite and modify the brain’s fears, but psychotherapy and diet remain the mainstays of treatment. Once normal body weight is regained, most of the symptoms disappear, but relapses are common, and long term follow up is essential for the continued good health of these people.

Diet :
    Any food is better than none, and encouraging patients to eat foods that they enjoy is often the first step in treatment. The next step is to gradually improve the quality of the food that they are eating, and eventually, patients should be encouraged to eat a normal well balanced diet.

Further information:
    Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia support organisations exist in every state. These include self help groups and groups that support families of patients.