Eating disorders are mental disorders that affect both men and women in the population. The four types of eating disorders include anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, and eating disorders not otherwise specified (EDNOS). Essentially, these four types of eating disorders have similar symptoms and causes, some can be very similar and very few are different. The exact cause of eating disorders is not yet well understood, but there is concrete evidence that appears to link the cause to other medical conditions and situations. Treatment varies depending on the eating disorder it is, and for most, multiple treatment options are used. Treatment mainly revolves around various types of therapies and inpatient care. What are eating disorders? Eating disorders are conditions of abnormal eating habits. They may involve either insufficient or excessive dietary intake. It can harm the physical and mental health of a human being. Eating disorders are a significant problem in modern society and are often undetected and downplayed. These disorders can be potentially life-threatening and cause social, emotional, mental and physical problems; This results in complications in the normal life of the person with an eating disorder. Both men and women are affected, but it appears to affect women more than men. According to the health website WebMD, “90% of people with eating disorders are girls” (2013). Eating disorders are more common among adolescents. Types of Eating Disorders There are four types of eating disorders: anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, binge eating disorder, and disordered eating. not otherwise specified (EDNOS). Anorexia and bulimia... middle of paper ... binge eating involves obesity and the following: high blood pressure, musculoskeletal problems, high cholesterol, gallbladder disease, heart disease, and diabetes sugar. High cholesterol can eventually lead to a blocked artery, which can be fatal. The binge and purge cycles of bulimia nervosa can be extremely harmful to the body. The digestive system may be damaged and there may be an electrolyte or chemical imbalance in the body that can potentially affect the heart and other major vital organs of the body. Electrolyte imbalance can lead to irregular heartbeat, heart failure, and even death. The esophagus can become inflamed and eventually rupture from all the recurring vomiting. Constipation and chronic irregular bowel movements can result from laxative abuse. EDNOS have the same health consequences as anorexia and bulimia nervosa.