Binge-Eating Disorder
An eating disorder involving recurrent episodes of eating unusually large amounts of food with a sense of loss of control, without regular compensatory behaviors.
Overview
Binge-eating disorder involves recurrent episodes of eating an unusually large amount of food accompanied by a sense of loss of control, occurring at least weekly over a sustained period, without the regular use of compensatory behaviors seen in bulimia nervosa.
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms can include eating much more rapidly than normal, eating until uncomfortably full, eating alone due to embarrassment, and feelings of guilt or distress afterward. Experiencing one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that a person has this condition. Diagnosis requires an appropriate clinical evaluation.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause is not fully understood. Genetic, psychological, and environmental factors, including dieting history and emotional distress, are associated with binge-eating disorder.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis should be made by a qualified healthcare professional following a comprehensive clinical assessment. Clinicians may use established diagnostic frameworks such as DSM-5-TR and/or ICD-11 as part of a comprehensive assessment.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the individual’s symptoms, clinical history, severity, age, co-occurring conditions, and other relevant factors.
Psychotherapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy has strong evidence supporting its use for binge-eating disorder.
Medication
Certain medications are FDA-approved for moderate to severe binge-eating disorder and may be considered alongside psychotherapy. Medication decisions should be made with a qualified prescribing healthcare professional. Do not start, stop, or change a prescribed medication based solely on information on this page.
Living With Binge-Eating Disorder
Regular eating patterns, addressing emotional triggers, and reducing restrictive dieting can support recovery.
When to Seek Professional Help
Professional evaluation may be appropriate if symptoms persist, worsen, cause significant distress, or interfere with work, school, or relationships.
Emergency Situations
If a person may be in immediate danger, is experiencing a medical or psychiatric emergency, or may harm themselves or another person, seek immediate assistance through appropriate local emergency services.
Outlook
Binge-eating disorder responds well to treatment for many people, with significant reduction in binge frequency.
Related Conditions
Medical Information Disclaimer
Ratel Health provides general educational information and does not provide medical diagnosis, treatment, or individualized medical advice. Information on this page is not a substitute for evaluation or care from a qualified healthcare professional. Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or another person, or to start, stop, or change treatment or medication without consulting an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.
References
- American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR).
- National Institute of Mental Health.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
- World Health Organization. International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision.