EDNOS stands for Eating Disorder Not Otherwise Specified. It was a clinical diagnosis used in the DSM-IV (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition) to describe individuals who had significant symptoms of an eating disorder but did not fully meet the criteria for specific diagnoses like anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa. What Does …
EDNOS stands for Eating Disorder Not Otherwise Specified. It was a clinical diagnosis used in the DSM-IV (Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fourth Edition) to describe individuals who had significant symptoms of an eating disorder but did not fully meet the criteria for specific diagnoses like anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa.
What Does EDNOS Include?
EDNOS covered a broad spectrum of disordered eating behaviors, such as:
- Having all the symptoms of anorexia but maintaining a normal weight
- Engaging in binge eating without regular purging
- Purging (vomiting, laxatives, etc.) without binge eating
- Eating irregularly in ways that cause emotional or physical distress
- Extreme concern about body weight or shape without typical patterns of anorexia or bulimia
This made EDNOS the most commonly diagnosed eating disorder at the time, despite being less well understood by the public.
What Changed in DSM-5?
In 2013, the American Psychiatric Association updated the diagnostic criteria. EDNOS was replaced with more precise categories to improve diagnosis and treatment:
- OSFED (Other Specified Feeding or Eating Disorder) – for disordered eating that doesn’t fit traditional categories but still causes significant harm.
- UFED (Unspecified Feeding or Eating Disorder) – for cases where symptoms are present but information is incomplete for a full diagnosis.
These changes aim to reduce confusion and help clinicians offer more personalized care.
Why Is This Important?
EDNOS — now referred to as OSFED or UFED — can be just as serious and life-threatening as anorexia or bulimia. It often causes:
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Hormonal imbalances
- Anxiety, depression, or self-esteem issues
- Long-term health consequences if untreated
Even if someone doesn’t meet all the textbook criteria for a specific eating disorder, they still deserve help. Early treatment can lead to better recovery outcomes.
If you’re noticing signs of disordered eating in yourself or a loved one, Jacobson community offers confidential, compassionate support. Our licensed professionals can help assess symptoms and guide the path toward recovery. Schedule an appointment today.