What Is OSFED?
Other specified feeding and eating disorder, also known as OSFED, is an eating disorder in which individuals may have symptoms of anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating disorder, but the symptoms blur the lines between all three, and do not fit neatly into one diagnostic category.
Individuals struggling with other specified eating disorders, previously known as not otherwise specified eating disorder, have extremely disordered eating habits, an intense fear of gaining weight, low self-esteem, and a poor body image. OSFED is much more common than you may think. In fact, this disorder accounts for up to 50% of all eating disorder cases. Because of the severity of other specified eating disorders, treatment is crucial. OSFED may progress to anorexia, bulimia, or binge eating disorder if left untreated.
With all eating disorders, the sooner an individual with OSFED receives treatment, the more likely it is that they will achieve full recovery. At Eating Disorder Solutions in Texas, we understand the risk of ignoring OSFED and the important role that comprehensive treatment plays in creating a better future for those who experience it. Learn about our treatment plans for other specified feeding and eating disorders and contact us for an evaluation.
While the American Psychiatric Association has changed the name of this disorder from EDNOS (eating disorder not otherwise specified) to OSFED (other specified feeding and eating disorder), the definition has largely remained the same. Individuals living with other specified eating disorders can experience some symptoms of anorexia, bulimia or binge eating, but the symptoms may not fit into just one diagnostic classification. Though eating or feeding behavior may cause severe distress, an individual may not meet the full criteria of a specific eating disorder. Many individuals with other specified eating disorders have co-occurring disorders such as depression, anxiety, and PTSD.
Since there are blurred lines of other specified eating disorders, there are five examples of OSFED:
- Atypical anorexia nervosa: An individual has nearly all of the symptoms of anorexia, however, weight is still within or above the normal range despite weight loss.
- Binge eating or bulimia of low frequency and/or limited duration: All of the criteria for binge eating disorder or bulimia at met, however, the individual may not binge often or it has been for less than three months.
- Night eating syndrome: Repeated episodes of consuming large amounts of food at night or after awakening from sleep. These individuals typically consume 25% or more of the daily caloric intake during night eating sessions.
- Purging disorder: Recurrent purging to lose weight, however, the individual does not binge beforehand.
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How to Treat Other Specified Eating Disorders
Despite that, other specified eating disorders are just as serious as the specified eating disorders. The medical and psychological consequences can be severe. Many individuals develop vitamin and mineral deficiencies, such as anemia. Fatigue, weakness and hair loss are also common complications. The most alarming consequences, though, of other specified eating disorders are malnutrition, irregular heartbeat, osteoporosis, dehydration and organ failure. These are the reasons why other specified eating disorder treatment is so crucial.
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OSFED Signs & Symptoms
Individuals who show symptoms of OSFED should seek other specified eating disorder treatment as soon as possible.
- On a psychological level, they may have distorted self-image and become preoccupied with eating, food, weight and body shape.
- Sensitivity to comments about exercise, food, body and weight.
- Anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and guilt or self-loathing.
- Partake in extreme disordered eating habits, including food preparation and eating rituals.
- Develop anti-social and secretive behaviors.
- Weight fluctuations, losses or gains.
- Menstrual cycle changes in girls and decreased libido in boys
- Bad breath and damaged teeth from forced vomiting
- Frequent sickness because of a weakened immune system.
OSFED Treatment in Texas:
We are a team that consists of the most compassionate and knowledgeable staff of mental health professionals such as nutritionists, therapists, and psychiatrists at Eating Disorder Solutions. We give you the tools, support, and motivation to take your life back and start a new life journey.
Levels of care for OSFED include:
The Impact of OSFED if Left Untreated
As shown through the tragic realities of OSFED statistics, OSFED is a dangerous disorder that can produce serious health complications if left untreated. Since OSFED usually resembles other eating disorders such as anorexia, bulimia, binge eating, or purging, it has many of the same health consequences.
- Dental issues
- Nerve damage
- Osteoporosis
- Infertility
- Kidney and heart failure.
Start your recovery today
If you’ve noticed symptoms of OSFED in yourself or a loved one, contact Eating Disorder Solutions for a confidential consultation. Seeking OSFED treatment takes a lot of courage, and we understand this can be a scary step to take. We are here to help the entire way, from the initial diagnosis, insurance coverage, treatment planning and the intake process. Get all your questions answered about the road to recovery with Eating Disorder Solutions intake and admissions guide. Let us guide you through your journey and help you achieve long-term recovery at our tranquil OSFED treatment center in Texas.