HealthWise KnowledgeBase
Eating Disorders: Malnutrition Tests
Topic Overview
As a part of the physical exam for Reference eating disorders Opens New Window, a doctor may order certain tests to see whether your body is generally healthy. These may include blood or urine tests to check:
- Reference Electrolyte Opens New Window 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 Reference thyroid gland Opens New Window.
- Levels of certain Reference hormones Opens New Window, such as Reference luteinizing hormone (LH) Opens New Window and Reference follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) Opens New Window in women and Reference testosterone Opens New Window in men.
- Levels of Reference vitamins Opens New Window and Reference minerals Opens New Window in the body.
A doctor may also test whether you have difficulty digesting certain foods, such as milk and dairy products.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference August 25, 2011 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Adam Husney, MD, MD - Family Medicine
Reference W. Stewart Agras, MD - Psychiatry |
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This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
