- Psychologically, self-induced vomiting represents a form of liberation from post-meal guilt or consequent loss of control over food (binge or binge symptoms). In DCA, self-induced vomiting represents a method to control weight and / or physical appearance; therefore, in psychiatric diagnostics it represents a fundamental evaluation criterion.
Self-induced vomiting in Bulimia Nervosa (BN)
In BN, self-induced vomiting (together with laxatives, diuretics and enemas) constitutes an element of differentiation between the subtype WITH ELIMINATION DUCTS and subtype WITHOUT ELIMINATION DUCTS; in the second case, the practice of self-induced vomiting is replaced by compulsive physical activity and fasting.
Self-induced vomiting in Anorexia Nervosa (AN)
In the AN, self-induced vomiting (together with laxatives, diuretics and enemas) constitutes an element of differentiation between the subtype WITH BERRIES REGULARLY ASSOCIATED WITH ELIMINATION PIPES and subtype WITH RESTRICTIONS.
Self-Induced Vomiting in Eating Disorders Not Otherwise Specified (NAS)
Even in the diagnosis of NAS, self-induced vomiting represents a fundamental element for the pathological identification of diseases that do not meet all the diagnostic criteria of a specific eating disorder.
indicators:
- SIGN OF RUSSEL: calluses and abrasions in the hand used to produce self-induced vomiting; it is caused by the repeated friction of the incisors on the back of the hand, and by the flaking of the nails and skin due to repeated exposure to gastric pH.
- DAMAGE TO TEETH, GUMS AND TONGUE: consequent to the wearing effect of gastric juices on tooth enamel and on the mucous membrane of the mouth.
- LACERATIONS OF THE LIPS AND CORNERS OF THE MOUTH
- FETOR OF THE BREATH
