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Warning-sign checks

Binge eating disorder: when to get help

Go through these in order and stop at the first one that applies. If you are reading this for someone else, answer for them.

  1. 1

    Is any of this happening now?

    Call 911

    Emergency help is appropriate for chest pain, trouble breathing, fainting, confusion, severe or rapidly worsening abdominal pain, vomiting blood, or signs of immediate medical danger.

    Anyone who may act on thoughts of suicide or self-harm should contact local emergency services or a crisis service immediately and stay with a trusted person when possible.

    Other emergency signs, for anyone
    • Someone who is struggling to breathe, gasping, choking, or cannot get words out
    • Someone who has chest pain, tightness or pressure lasting more than a few minutes
    • Someone who has sudden weakness or drooping on one side of the face or body, slurred speech, or sudden confusion
    • Someone who is unconscious, or cannot be woken
    • Someone who is bleeding heavily and it will not stop with firm pressure
    • Someone who has had a seizure that will not stop, or does not wake up afterwards
    • Someone who has lips or skin that look pale, blue, grey or blotchy
    • Someone who you believe has taken an overdose or swallowed something poisonous
  2. 2

    Is any of this happening?

    Be seen today

    Seek prompt medical advice if eating-related symptoms are causing repeated dizziness, worsening weakness, persistent abdominal symptoms, or difficulty carrying out daily activities.

  3. 3

    Does any of this apply?

    Book an appointment

    Routine follow-up helps the patient and care team review binge frequency, loss of control, regular eating, mood, sleep, medication effects, and progress toward personal goals.

    Follow-up may involve a primary care clinician, therapist, psychiatrist, and dietitian.

The article also says

A treatment review is appropriate if symptoms are not improving, binge episodes are becoming more frequent, side effects occur, or the plan feels overly focused on weight rather than eating-disorder recovery.

New vomiting, laxative misuse, severe restriction, or excessive exercise should also be reported because these behaviors may change the diagnosis and medical risks.

Every sign above is quoted from the sofidex article on Binge eating disorder. If you are not sure, err upward — it is always reasonable to be checked.