Heart disease is the most common medical cause of death in people with severe anorexia. In long-term, severe anorexia, heart disease is very likely to occur. The effects of eating disorders on the heart are numerous and difficult to reverse.
Cardiovascular risk factors with eating disorder include:
- Dangerous heart rhythms may show up even in teenagers with anorexia.
- Bradycardia is a slowness of the heartbeat, usually at a rate under 60 beats per minute (normal resting rate is 60 - 100 beats per minute).
- Blood flow is reduced
- Blood pressure may drop
- The heart muscles starve, losing size
- Cholesterol levels tend to rise
- Heart attack
- Atherosclerosis
- Arrhythmias in the heart
- Stroke
- Heart failure
- Angina
- Arteriosclerosis
For those with eating disorders, the only way to lower one’s cardiovascular risk is to receive prompt, professional treatment. Often, a residential program is required.
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If you or a loved one is suffering from an eating disorder, please call Timberline Knolls Residential Treatment Center at 1-877-211-5188 anytime to discuss treatment options.
The Eating Disorder Support Group at SupportGroups.com is for individuals who want to connect during life's challenging times. Share experiences, evaluate information and get support during times of need, illness, treatment or recovery.
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The Eating Disorder Support Groups at SupportGroups.com is for individuals, friends and families who are looking to connect during life's challenging times. Share personal experiences, evaluate information and get support during times of need, illness, treatment or recovery.
