Starving to Death

By Dr. Jonathan - Family Medical Practice Vietnam

Over the past few months, we found an unusually increasing number of teenage girls that come to the clinic due to Eating disorders and a drastic weight loss. Interestingly, they all started suffering from this problem during the Covid 19 lockdown when they were isolated at home away from school and friends.

Eating disorders are far more common in young women, and it usually starts during the teenage period. Many of these girls are often described by their parents or teachers as being “perfectionists”, they may be at the top of their class in academic achievements, they may suffer from low self esteem and tend to harshly criticize themselves. Some of these girls suffer from other psychological disorders as well, such as anxiety, panic or obsessive compulsive disorders.

Girls with eating disorders become obsessively occupied with their body image and their weight. They will severely restrict their diet (As in Anorexia) or will frequently force themselves to vomit after eating (as in Bulimia). They will feel they are “overweight” even though their weight is dangerously low. Sadly, there is no way to logically convince them they are actually underweight and they will continue to starve themselves even when it is obvious their lives are at risk. Their body start to breakdown bone and muscle for energy, they lose hair and their skin becomes very dry, they stop having menstruation and their heart rate and blood pressure gradually drop down, causing them to feel dizzy or even faint.

Fighting eating disorders is a long and never ending struggle that can last a lifetime. Psychological counseling and emotional support are the most crucial parts of treating these girls. Having a close and strong relationship with a counselor who is experienced in eating disorders is the best chance of success and will increase the likelihood these girls will start eating healthy again and maintain their recovery over time.

Dr. Jonathan Halevy is a pediatrician with extensive international training and experience. A graduate of Tel Aviv University’s prestigious Sackler School of Medicine, he has developed deep expertise in caring for children’s health across a wide range of pediatric conditions. Dr. Halevy provides comprehensive pediatric consultations, preventive care, and guidance to support children’s growth and wellbeing. He is known for engaging with parents through educational talks and resources to help families make informed health decisions for their children.

FMP Healthcare Group operates medical centres in major cities including HCMC, Ha Noi and Đa Nang, offering consultations with international doctors, check-up centres and emergency ambulance services.

Visit FMP Diamond Plaza in Ho Chi Minh City to consult with Dr. Jonathan Halevy.

To book an appointment, please call (028) 3822 7848 (FMP - Diamond Plaza) email hcmc@vietnammedicalpractice.com