Taking steps to reduce your stress level may improve binge eating somewhat.

Medication is usually not needed for this disorder. However, your doctor may prescribe antidepressants if you are anxious or depressed.

Talk therapy is often recommended. Individual, group, family, and behavioral therapy may help.

Call your health care provider if you think you might have a pattern of binge eating or bulimia.

Your health care provider will perform a physical examination. He or she may ask you and one or more of your family members for a history of your eating patterns.

Your health care provider may ask the following medical history questions:

• For how long have you been binge eating?
• Are you also "purging" (such as forcing yourself to vomit or abusing laxatives)?
• What other symptoms do you have?

Possible diagnostic tests include blood studies, such as electrolyte levels.

INTERVENTION

Behavior is usually controlled with:

• Biofeedback training
• Individual or group talk therapy