investigations
Last reviewed 01/2018
- electrolyte disturbance - notably hypokalaemia. Hypochloraemia may be present
- assess fluid and electrolyte balance in people with an eating disorder who are believed to be engaging in compensatory behaviours, such as vomiting, taking laxatives or diuretics, or water loading
- metabolic alkalosis may be seen (1)
- serum amylase is sometimes raised - cause uncertain
- endocrine function has not been systematically studied
- assess whether ECG monitoring is needed in people with an eating disorder,
based on the following risk factors (2):
- rapid weight loss
- excessive exercise
- severe purging behaviours, such as laxative or diuretic use or vomiting
- bradycardia
- hypotension
- excessive caffeine (including from energy drinks)
- prescribed or non-prescribed medications
- muscular weakness
- electrolyte imbalance
- previous abnormal heart rhythm.
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