Eating Disorder-go to hospital or not?

[ChrstKmb]

I have been anorexic and bulimic for about the past 3 years and during this time I have been in and out of rehabs, and hospitals. I tend to get really low potassium a lot but this feeling I am having is different. I feel like my heart is going to burst out of my chest and there is a slight pain. My back and neck hurt from being so still and a few days ago I was shaky and my whole body even my face was tingly. Do you think that I am about to have a heart attack and should go into the ER or am I just being paranoid?

[Me967]

Your post caught my eye.  I had a dear friend of mine (my best friend) with anorexia real bad.  She eventually died at 46 pounds.  She was a skeleton.  Hers started with uncontrollable IBS that eventually lead to anorexia.  

I feel for you.  It is very hard to get under control; but you can do it!!!  I came back from 76 pounds.  I was also into working out a lot and measuring fat.  Sigh.

What is listed above is all true though.  Eventually you will end up with heart issues, skin issues, your body will literally shut down on you and you will have to be on TPN's.  The longer you hurt your body, the harder it is to recover from it.  Your body will adjust to what it has to, to survive.  

My "guess" is your potassium and your sugar is down.  But it's hard for me to say.  

If you don't go to an ER at least go to your family doctor to do blood work on you and check your heart.  My guess is you will probably have to have fluids to replenish your body.   Write to me anytime you want......I understand.  BEST of wishes to you!

[ireneo]

As you know eating disorders can upset the electrolyte balance in your body and cause heart arrhythmias. Also, vomiting can damage the esophagus over time and that can cause intense pain. Many people with long time acid reflux have damage and it can feel like a heart attack.

I don't know whether your heart is acting up or it's your esophagus but you should be seen by a doctor. They can determine what's going on and give you some relief.

[mammo]

Yes, you are killing yourself with all this.  You need to get therapy and help with this!  The bile from vomiting is rotting your teeth, and once you try to stop vomiting it will be difficult as you've taught your body that vomiting is a natural process after eating.  You need to take this very seriously!  You're already paranoid to be doing this to yourself, so that ship has sailed. You've had several warnings that your body is deteriorating from this, what will it take for YOU to take it seriously????