Mid ’94 I started to lose weight after being very overweight. Near the end, I became anorexic for a few months. Since then things have consisted of restricting and bingeing (keeping an average weight overall). In the past several months I have restricted more and my Dr. thinks I am too thin and need to gain weight. I think he may be over-reacting? My questions are to do with bringing up blood. For a year there were rare specks in the phlegm. (The phlegm has come up daily for a few yrs.) Last Nov. I vomited a fair amount of blood one morning (for no reason). A gastroscopy a month later was clear. By the time of the gastroscopy, no blood was coming up. In the past week, blood has started appearing in the phlegm again, and very frequently. (There is no pain, no cough.) I have never purged/vomited/etc. I am single, not working and my life is inconsequential to all. To try and improve my nutrition and psychological difficulties, there is only me. I have no support. No one will notice or care. Do doctors and psychologists realize how hard it is when you’re an adult and alone without support? Do they realize how hard it is to fight for yourself when no one will notice? – Judy.
Dear Judy,
Your questions make me frightened for you. First, you are so very valuable and not at all inconsequential. Your perceptions and experiences are unique. Perhaps you are meant to help others with eating disorders as you learn more about your own recovery. Once someone has survived Anorexia, they are so well equipped to face almost any challenge.
Please make an appointment for a complete physical immediately. I have never dealt with someone with your combination of symptoms, but I learn new things all the time. Poor nutrition can easily result in a wide variety of symptoms. Symptoms such as vomiting with blood always demand immediate attention. Seek several opinions if necessary, although it sounds as though your doctor is concerned and responsive. Take these signs very seriously. Listen to your body. You can find support from others through therapy and positive websites such as this one.
Please take care!!
Fb Team