Disease Comparison

Overview

Binge Eating Disorder

Binge eating disorder is an eating disorder characterized by repeated episodes of eating unusually large amounts of food while feeling unable to control the eating. Episodes may involve eating rapidly, eating when not physically hungry, continuing until uncomfortably full, or eating alone because of embarrassment. Unlike bulimia nervosa, binge eating is not routinely followed by behaviors such as self-induced vomiting or misuse of laxatives to compensate for eating. The disorder is treatable and can affect physical and emotional health.

Ankylosing Spondylitis

Ankylosing spondylitis is a chronic inflammatory condition that mainly affects the spine and the joints connecting the spine and pelvis. It commonly causes lower back or hip pain and stiffness that may worsen after periods of rest and improve with movement. In some people, inflammation can also affect other joints, the eyes, skin, or digestive system.

Symptoms

Shared

None

Only in Left Disease

Excessive Sweating Mood Swings

Only in Right Disease

Back Pain Lower Back Pain Muscle Weakness

Causes

Shared

None

Only in Left Disease

Obesity Stress

Only in Right Disease

Autoimmune Disorder Genetics

Diagnosis

Binge Eating Disorder

Diagnosis is based on the pattern and frequency of binge-eating episodes, the sense of loss of control, associated behaviors and emotions, and the absence of regular compensatory behaviors characteristic of bulimia. A healthcare professional will ask about eating habits and symptoms and may perform a physical examination. Blood tests or other medical assessments may be used to identify health effects or related conditions. Psychological evaluation can help identify emotional factors and coexisting mental health problems.

Ankylosing Spondylitis

Diagnosis of ankylosing spondylitis is based on symptoms, physical examination, medical history, and imaging. X-rays may show changes in the sacroiliac joints or spine, while MRI can detect inflammation earlier in the disease. Blood tests may include markers such as C-reactive protein and testing for HLA-B27. No single test confirms the condition in every person.

Prevention

Binge Eating Disorder

There is no guaranteed way to prevent binge eating disorder, but regular and balanced eating patterns may help avoid cycles of severe restriction followed by overeating. Developing healthy ways to manage stress and emotional distress can also be useful. Avoiding extreme dieting and seeking help for persistent concerns about eating, body image, or loss of control may allow earlier intervention. Treatment commonly includes psychological and nutrition counseling, which can help reduce binge episodes and address factors that maintain the disorder.

Ankylosing Spondylitis

Ankylosing spondylitis cannot currently be prevented because its exact cause is unknown and genetic factors play an important role. People with a strong family history or persistent inflammatory back symptoms should seek medical evaluation. Early diagnosis and appropriate management, including regular physical activity and exercises recommended by healthcare professionals, can help maintain mobility and posture.

Risk Factors

Binge Eating Disorder

Risk factors include a family history of eating disorders, emotional distress, depression or anxiety, and patterns of restrictive or irregular eating. Experiences that contribute to negative emotions or difficulty managing stress may increase vulnerability. Binge eating can occur in people of different ages and backgrounds and may occur with other mental health or eating-related conditions. Body weight alone does not establish whether a person has binge eating disorder, so assessment should focus on eating behavior and loss of control.

Ankylosing Spondylitis

Risk factors include a family history of ankylosing spondylitis and genetic susceptibility, particularly the HLA-B27 gene. Symptoms commonly begin before age 45. People with inflammatory bowel diseases such as Crohn disease or ulcerative colitis, or with psoriasis, may also have increased risk of developing ankylosing spondylitis.