- Physical signs and symptoms
– Frequent changes in weight
– Lethargy, tiredness and insomnia
– Dehydration
– General digestive problems (cramps, wind, constipation, diarrhoea)
– Poor skin condition
– Headaches, tension
– Sore throat and mouth ulcers, husky voice
– Calluses on fingers
– Irregular periods
– Enlarged salivary glands
– Erosion of tooth enamel, tooth decay
- Psychological signs and symptoms
– Feeling emotional, irritability, mood swings
– Dissatisfaction with body image
– Feeling out of control
– Feelings of inadequacy and worthlessness
– Feelings of guilt and shame
– Depression and related symptoms
– Anxiety
- Other behavioural signs
– Preoccupation with dieting
– Regular binges (uncontrollable overeating)
– Being sick after meals
– Disappearing to the lavatory after meals in order to get rid of food
– Secret hoarding of food
– Secret disposal of vomit (e.g. bags of vomit hidden in bedroom)
– Abuse of laxatives
– Excessive exercising
– Risk-taking behaviours such as alcohol or drug misuse, shoplifting, promiscuity, self-harm
– Problems dealing with social situations and interaction with others