Preparing for an appointment

Treatment of binge-eating disorder may require a team approach that includes doctors and other medical care providers, mental health professionals and dietitians with experience in eating disorders.

Here's some information to help you get ready for your appointments. Ask a family member or friend to go with you, if possible, to help you remember key points and give a fuller picture of the situation.

What you can do

Before your appointment make a list of:

• Symptoms you're experiencing, including any that may seem unrelated to the reason for your appointment
• Key personal information, including any major stresses or recent life changes
• All medications you're taking, as well as any herbs, vitamins or other supplements, and their dosages
• A typical day's eating, which can help your medical care provider or mental health professional understand your eating habits

Questions to ask your medical care provider or mental health professional include:

• What treatments are available, and which do you recommend?
• If medication is a part of treatment, is a generic drug available?
• Are there any brochures or other printed material I can have? What websites do you recommend?

Don't hesitate to ask other questions during your appointment.

What to expect from your doctor

Your medical care provider or mental health professional is likely to ask you a number of questions, such as:

• What does your typical daily food intake look like?
• Do you eat unusually large amounts of food or until you're uncomfortably full?
• Do you feel your eating is out of control?
• Have you tried to lose weight? If so, how?
• Do you think about food often?
• Do you eat even when you're full or not hungry?
• Do you ever eat in secret?
• Do you feel depressed, ashamed or guilty about your eating?
• Do you ever make yourself vomit to get rid of calories?
• Are you concerned about your weight?
• Do you exercise? How often?

Your medical care provider or mental health professional will ask additional questions based on your responses, symptoms and needs. Preparing and anticipating questions will help you make the most of your appointment time.