Avoidance and/or restriction of certain foods or types of foods
Aetiology
- Associated conditions include ASD, anorexia, bulimia, and anxiety disorder
Pathophysiology
- Can lead to failure to grow, weight loss, physical and psychological health impacts
- Social impacts - especially where eating is part of the occasion
- Sensory based e.g. to texture, smell etc.
- Concern regarding consequences of eating particular foods e.g. fear of vomiting
- May restrict to 'safe foods'
- Little interest in eating - little recognition of hunger, generally poor appetite
Clinical presentation
- Most people with ARFID will still maintain a healthy or typical body weight
- There are no specific outward appearances associated with ARFID
Management
- Treatment tailored to the individual's needs e.g. if anxiety driven CBT or SSRI medication, if co-morbid ASD help with sensory problems
- Nutrutional input - assessment and help managing nutritional needs
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