Eating Disorders Forum - Nausea after trauma

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Q: Nausea after trauma

asked by: bobthetomato on August 2nd, 2009

New User

Hi, everybody. I am a nineteen year old male, and I am concerned that I may have quite rapidly developed an eating disorder.
I learned two weeks ago that a very good friend of mine had been raped, and I found myself quite traumatized by the fact. I immediately felt incredibly sick, and nearly vomited a few times.
I expected this to go away, but it has persisted in a strange way. Now, whenever I touch food or try to eat a full meal I am overcome with a renewed wave of intense nausea. I eat with my family, but it's all I can do to keep it down after a few meagre bites (my mom, who doesn't know about my trauma, thinks I have a tapeworm or something). Not just that, but I feel better when I haven't eaten. Physically, and to and extent, mentally and emotionally as well.
On the other hand, I do not induce vomiting, and I have never been concerned by my weight. I have not increased my regimen of exercise, and I do not feel pressured to look any differently. I've always understood that these were symptoms of an eating disorder.
I know it is quite early to diagnose, but I am concerned by this sudden and instantaneous transformation in my body. Has anyone else experienced this after severe trauma? And to those who may have answers, please let me know.
Thanks to you all. God bless.

Replies(2)

Dr. Kelly Romirowsky , Psy. D

replied on August 2nd, 2009

I understand that you are wondering if an eating disorder can be triggered quickly. Yes it is possible for an eating disorder to be triggered over a short amount of time, but whether it does actually develop depends on the individual. There a few types of eating disorders, including anorexia, buliimia, binge-eating disorder, and eating disorder not otherwise specified (for those who don't fully fit the criteria for the former). You do not need to induce vomiting or exercise excessively to have an eating disorder. Depression also can lead to changes in appetite. You may want to speak with your doctor or a psychologist about your symptoms to determine your diagnosis. If you do have an eating disorder, evidence suggests that the earlier you begin treatment, the better. Either way, a therapist can help you process your feelings about your friend.

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Users who thank Raquel Romirowsky for this post: bobthetomato

bobthetomato

replied on August 3rd, 2009

New User

Thank you, Ms.Romirowsky. I'm a little bit reassured to know that it's probably not a fullblown eating disorder. However, I am still worried about the nausea, so I might take your advice on the doctor. And I'm seriously considering the therapist option. This whole mess is taking a huge toll on me. I can't even imagine what she's going through, and I feel really selfish to be thinking about my own emotional distress, but I really think I should do something about it.
Thanks for your good and prompt advice. You've really helped.

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