Food Aversion? New, need advice
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| Sun, 07-25-2004 - 1:58pm |
I'm here because I'm at a loss as to how to deal with what my docs are telling me. It began with a stomach bug last year when I couldn't hold anything down for 6 weeks; I got better for about 3 months and then, since January, have been hospitalized countless times--I get better for a couple of weeks, eat normally, my weight goes back up to normal--then I inexplicably spiral down and can't hold the food down, ending up back in the hospital.
I've had every scan, study and test they can think of; apparently, I'm as healthy as a horse. I have NEVER made myself throw up--in fact, I find it just about the most disgusting and unpleasant, frightening thing that your body can do. During my most recent hospitalization (been home for a week now), they came to the conclusion that I am suffering from something called "food aversion". Even though I am able to eat more and more every day, apparently there are times when my digestive system simply clamps itself shut when I try to get food in. I think they went to this diagnosis in great part because I have a history of depression. Additionally, they placed a feeding tube in April so I could get calories in when I'm unable to eat.
They tell me this "is and isn't exactly" an eating disorder, but they want to get me into an outpatient program that will address both the depression and the eating; I have told them that if they find me a good program, I will work my tail off in it--nobody wants this constant nausea and cycle of hospitalizations to stop more than I do. I also see a therapist and have just begun taking an antidepressant. I'm sick to death of the never-ending nausea--I want it GONE and I want my life back to normal.
Has anyone ever heard of this disorder--especially existing on its own? (I know that people with anorexia nervosa and bulimia do develop some food aversions, but I have neither of those other conditions).
If anyone can offer any insight, advice, support, etc., I would be so grateful. I need to know somehow that I'm not alone and that with work, being well again WILL happen.
With many thanks for listening,
Bella

Hi Bella,
I am sorry you are going through so much. Having battled my own health issues other than the eating disorder, I know it's horrible when you are constantly sick. I have not however gone through what you are going through or heard of it.
Addressing the depression and the physical issue sounds like the best thing
Love & hugs, Kristina