It's important to remember that I cannot provide a diagnosis, and if you're experiencing concerning symptoms, it's crucial to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for an accurate assessment.
Anorexia nervosa and bulimia nervosa are two distinct eating disorders, but it's possible for an individual to experience symptoms that overlap between the two, leading to a diagnosis of both disorders or what's called "anorexia nervosa-binge-purge subtype."
Anorexia nervosa is characterized by an intense fear of gaining weight, a distorted body image, and significant weight loss. People with anorexia often restrict their food intake severely, leading to low body weight and malnutrition.
On the other hand, bulimia nervosa involves recurrent episodes of binge eating, where an individual consumes a large amount of food within a discrete period and feels a lack of control during these episodes. Bingeing is usually followed by compensatory behaviors, such as self-induced vomiting, excessive exercise, or the misuse of laxatives or diuretics to prevent weight gain.
The combination of restricting food intake, binge eating, and purging behaviors could indicate a mix of both disorders, as you described. It's important to understand that these are serious mental health conditions that can have severe physical and psychological consequences. Seeking professional help is essential for a proper evaluation, diagnosis, and appropriate treatment.
If you're feeling comfortable doing so, consider reaching out to a mental health professional, such as a therapist, psychologist, or psychiatrist, who specializes in eating disorders. They can help you explore your feelings, behaviors, and concerns and work with you to develop a personalized treatment plan to address your specific needs.
Remember that seeking help is a sign of strength, and recovery is possible with the right support and treatment.