Eating Disorders: Malnutrition Tests
As a part of the physical exam for
eating disorders, a doctor may order
certain tests to see whether your body is generally healthy. These may include
blood or urine tests to check:
-
Electrolyte levels. Electrolytes are
minerals, such as potassium, calcium, and sodium. A severe imbalance of
electrolytes can lead to seizures, an irregular heartbeat, muscle weakness, and
other problems.
- Levels of iron, sugar, protein, and
fat.
- The function of the kidneys, liver, and
thyroid gland.
- Levels of certain
hormones, such as
luteinizing hormone (LH) and
follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) in women and
testosterone in men.
- Levels of
vitamins and
minerals in the body.
A doctor may also test whether you have difficulty
digesting certain foods, such as milk and dairy products.
|
By
| Healthwise Staff |
|
Primary Medical Reviewer
| Adam Husney, MD, MD - Family Medicine |
|
Specialist Medical Reviewer
| W. Stewart Agras, MD - Psychiatry |
|
Last Revised
| August 25, 2011 |
Last Revised:
August 25, 2011