Are there complications related to treating anorexia?

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Are there complications related to treating anorexia?

The most serious complication of treating anorexia is a condition called refeeding syndrome. This life-threatening condition can occur when a seriously malnourished person begins to receive nutrition again. Basically, their body cannot properly restart the metabolism process.

People experiencing refeeding syndrome can develop the following conditions:

  • Whole-body swelling (edema).
  • Heart failure and/or lung failure.
  • Gastrointestinal problems.
  • Extensive muscle weakness.
  • Delirium.
  • Death.

Since refeeding syndrome can have serious and life-threatening side effects, it’s essential for people with anorexia to receive medical treatment and/or guidance.

People who have one or more of the following risk factors for developing refeeding syndrome may need to be treated in a hospital:

  • Are severely malnourished (less than 70% median BMI in adolescents; a BMI of less than 15 in adults).
  • Have had little or no calorie intake for more than 10 days.
  • Have a history of refeeding syndrome.
  • Have lost a lot of weight in a very short period of time (10% to 15% of total body mass within three to six months).
  • Drink significant amounts of alcohol.
  • Have a history of misusing laxatives, diet pills, diuretics, or insulin (if they have diabetes).
  • Have abnormal electrolyte levels before starting refeeding.

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