Symptom 7: Unintended Weight Loss
When we hear about weight loss, it’s often in a positive context, related to health goals or fitness aspirations. But for those with EMD, unintended weight loss can become a concerning reality. It’s not about dieting or exercising excessively, but rather a direct consequence of the eating difficulties associated with the disorder.
As we’ve explored, various symptoms of EMD can make eating challenging, from difficulty swallowing to the fear of choking. Over time, these challenges can lead to reduced food intake. Meals might be skipped, or portion sizes may be significantly decreased, leading to a caloric deficit.
The outcome? A gradual, unintended weight loss. While shedding a few pounds might not raise alarms initially, consistent and unexplained weight loss can indicate that the body isn’t getting the nutrition it needs. This can lead to fatigue, a weakened immune system, and other health complications. (7)
