Eating disorder not otherwise specified (EDNOS) refers to a condition where a person may engage in a variety of behaviours and symptoms from across the spectrum of the specifically defined conditions, but may not fit comfortably into one of those classifications.
For example, a person may show all other symptoms and behaviours of anorexia, but without significant weight loss; or a person may show the symptoms of bulimia, but is not binging/purging as regularly as required by the strict diagnostic criteria. One of the most significant areas currently included within the 'EDNOS' category is Binge Eating Disorder.
EDNOS is thought to account for up to 50% of diagnoses of eating disorders, however because of the difficulties around the diagnostic criteria it is not recognized to the same extent.
While a less concrete diagnosis can be difficult, because the same behaviours are involved the same health risks exist as in the case of other eating disorders.
As such it is important to acknowledge the disorder, seek support, and address any physical/medical side-effects as well as addressing the emotional background to the behaviours.