Expert: Nafeesah - 4/6/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hi, I had severe anorexia/bulimia and laxative abuse for 9 years. One and a
half years ago I quit altogether purging and I eat with absolutely no
restriction. I do not use diuretics, laxatives or drink caffeine at all.  I feel fully
recovered other than the fact that I have had consistent edema in my face for
this one and a half years of recovery. My face is very swollen-looking and my
eyes hurt from the pressure of fluid. I believe this is my body not knowing
how to balance fluids or salt properly from years of like barely any water or
salt intake. I am so depressed about how I look that I have pretty much been
in the house this whole recovery. I am scared for people to see me so
swollen. I want my life back! When will my body reach homeostasis? My
question for you is: Do you think this process could take years? What can I do
to help it along faster? Thank you and blessings- Jennifer

ANSWER: If you're having issues with fluid retention after having recovered from an eating disorder(s) I would speak with the doctor about this. Even though it's been nearly 2 years your body is still technically in recovery. It's a time-consuming process with your body trying to regulate itself back after having been through anorexia and bulimia. If you're having some concerns call your doctor and get a visit scheduled so you can meet with him or her to find out why you're still dealing with fluid retention. Something like this usually ceases within a few months, but for nearly 2 years this could mean something's going on.

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Thank you for your response! I have seen more than a dozen doctors over the
past year of all kinds and no one can tell me anything. No one knows what to
tell me. I have spent major money going out of state and all around. No one
understands what is going on. I have had test upon test done to test all kinds
of things it could be and all looks normal. This swelling has been gradually
ebbing which makes me think it will cease all together at some point. I just
really want to know when I guess. Right now it is about two thirds or maybe
even half of what it was a year and a half ago. Do you believe that something
could still be very wrong that I should be concerned about or do you think it
will eventually come to a full recovery? Thank you for your time!- Jennifer

Answer
I would speak to an endocrinologist because this could be an issue with your kidneys not pushing the fluid out faster. This is something you should do right away. Call your doctor and get a referral to an endocrinologist to find out what's going on with you having to deal with fluid retention and other issues with your body holding fluid that shouldnt be there.