ICD-10: F50.811

Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is a significant mental health condition characterized by recurrent episodes of eating large quantities of food, often to the point of discomfort, accompanied by feelings of loss of control during the binge episodes. The ICD-10-CM code F50.811 specifically designates Binge Eating Disorder, moderate, which reflects the severity and frequency of the binge eating episodes.

Clinical Description of Binge Eating Disorder

Diagnostic Criteria

According to the DSM-5-TR, the diagnosis of Binge Eating Disorder is based on specific criteria, which include:

1. Recurrent Episodes: The individual experiences recurrent episodes of binge eating, defined as consuming an unusually large amount of food in a discrete period (e.g., within 2 hours).
2. Loss of Control: During these episodes, the individual feels a lack of control over their eating behavior.

3. Associated Features: Binge eating episodes are associated with three (or more) of the following:
   - Eating much more rapidly than normal.
   - Eating until feeling uncomfortably full.
   - Eating large amounts of food when not feeling physically hungry.
   - Eating alone because of feeling embarrassed by how much one is eating.
   - Feeling disgusted with oneself, depressed, or very guilty afterward.

4. Frequency: For a diagnosis of moderate BED, binge eating occurs at least once a week for three months.

5. Exclusion of Other Disorders: The binge eating is not associated with the regular use of inappropriate compensatory behaviors (e.g., purging) and does not occur exclusively during the course of anorexia nervosa or bulimia nervosa.

Severity Classification

The severity of Binge Eating Disorder is classified based on the frequency of binge eating episodes:
- Mild: 1-3 episodes per week.
- Moderate: 4-7 episodes per week (which corresponds to the F50.811 code).
- Severe: 8-13 episodes per week.
- Extreme: 14 or more episodes per week[1][2].

Clinical Implications

Treatment Considerations

Treatment for Binge Eating Disorder often involves a combination of psychotherapy, nutritional counseling, and, in some cases, medication. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is particularly effective, focusing on changing the thoughts and behaviors associated with binge eating. Medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may also be prescribed to help manage symptoms[3][4].

Impact on Health

Individuals with moderate Binge Eating Disorder may experience various health complications, including obesity, diabetes, hypertension, and other metabolic disorders due to the patterns of overeating. Additionally, the psychological impact can lead to anxiety, depression, and social isolation, further complicating the individual's overall health and well-being[5].

Conclusion

The ICD-10 code F50.811 for Binge Eating Disorder, moderate, encapsulates a critical mental health condition that requires comprehensive assessment and intervention. Understanding the clinical description, diagnostic criteria, and treatment options is essential for healthcare providers to effectively support individuals struggling with this disorder. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes and enhance the quality of life for those affected.

References

1. DSM-5-TR® Update Supplement to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.
2. ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Code F50 - Eating disorders.
3. New Diagnosis Codes for Obesity, Hypoglycemia, and Binge Eating Disorder.
4. Mental Health Billable ICD-10 Diagnosis Codes - Minnesota Department of Health.
5. Billing and Coding: Psychiatric Diagnostic Evaluation and Treatment.

Binge Eating Disorder (BED), classified under ICD-10 code F50.811, is characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating without the regular use of compensatory behaviors that are seen in other eating disorders, such as bulimia nervosa. Understanding the clinical presentation, signs, symptoms, and patient characteristics associated with moderate binge eating disorder is crucial for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.

Clinical Presentation

Definition and Diagnostic Criteria

Binge Eating Disorder is defined by the occurrence of recurrent episodes of binge eating, which are characterized by:
- Eating an unusually large amount of food in a discrete period (e.g., within 2 hours).
- A sense of lack of control over eating during the episode.

For a diagnosis of moderate binge eating disorder (ICD-10 code F50.811), the DSM-5 criteria specify that the individual experiences binge eating episodes at least once a week for a period of three months, and the severity is determined by the frequency of these episodes. Moderate BED is typically indicated by 4 to 7 binge eating episodes per week[1][2].

Signs and Symptoms

Common Symptoms

Patients with moderate binge eating disorder may exhibit a range of symptoms, including:

• Recurrent Binge Eating Episodes: Consuming large quantities of food in a short time, often accompanied by feelings of distress or shame.
• Emotional Distress: Feelings of disgust, depression, or guilt after binge eating episodes.
• Eating in Secret: Individuals may hide their eating behaviors due to embarrassment.
• Physical Symptoms: These can include discomfort, stomach pain, or gastrointestinal issues due to overeating.
• Weight Fluctuations: Many individuals with BED experience significant weight gain or obesity, although some may maintain a normal weight.

Behavioral Indicators

• Preoccupation with Food: Constant thoughts about food, dieting, and body image.
• Avoidance of Social Situations: Individuals may avoid gatherings or situations where food is present to prevent binge eating episodes.
• Dieting History: Many patients have a history of restrictive dieting, which can trigger binge eating episodes.

Patient Characteristics

Demographics

• Age: Binge eating disorder can occur in adolescents and adults, but it is most commonly diagnosed in late adolescence to early adulthood.
• Gender: While BED can affect individuals of any gender, it is more frequently reported in females than males, although the gap is narrowing as awareness increases[3].

Psychological Profile

• Comorbid Conditions: Many individuals with moderate BED may also experience other mental health disorders, such as anxiety, depression, or substance use disorders. This comorbidity can complicate treatment and recovery.
• Body Image Issues: Patients often struggle with negative body image and self-esteem issues, which can exacerbate the disorder.

Lifestyle Factors

• Dietary Habits: Individuals may have a history of yo-yo dieting or may engage in restrictive eating patterns that lead to binge episodes.
• Stress and Emotional Triggers: Emotional distress, stress, or trauma can trigger binge eating episodes, making it essential to address these underlying issues in treatment.

Conclusion

Binge Eating Disorder, particularly in its moderate form (ICD-10 code F50.811), presents a complex interplay of behavioral, emotional, and physical symptoms. Recognizing the clinical signs and understanding patient characteristics are vital for healthcare providers to offer effective interventions. Treatment often involves a combination of psychotherapy, nutritional counseling, and, in some cases, medication to address both the eating disorder and any co-occurring mental health issues. Early intervention can significantly improve outcomes for individuals struggling with this disorder[4][5].

References

1. DSM-5-TR® Update Supplement to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.
2. The Diagnosis and Treatment of Eating Disorders - PMC.
3. What is Binge Eating Disorder: Symptoms, Risks, & Causes.
4. ICD-10-CM Code for Binge Eating Disorder F50.81.
5. Key Takeaways from the FY 2025 ICD-10-CM Code Updates.

Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is a significant mental health condition characterized by recurrent episodes of eating large quantities of food, often accompanied by feelings of loss of control and distress. The ICD-10-CM code F50.811 specifically refers to moderate cases of this disorder. Below are alternative names and related terms associated with this diagnosis.

Alternative Names for Binge Eating Disorder

1. Compulsive Overeating: This term emphasizes the uncontrollable nature of the eating behavior, highlighting the compulsive aspect of the disorder.

2. Binge Eating Syndrome: This name is often used interchangeably with Binge Eating Disorder, focusing on the syndrome's symptoms rather than the diagnostic criteria.

3. Recurrent Binge Eating: This phrase describes the repetitive nature of the eating episodes, which is a core feature of the disorder.

4. Eating Disorder Not Otherwise Specified (EDNOS): In some contexts, BED may have been classified under EDNOS before the DSM-5 recognized it as a distinct diagnosis.

5. Night Eating Syndrome: While not synonymous, this term can sometimes overlap with BED, particularly when binge eating occurs primarily at night.

Related Terms and Concepts

1. Obesity: Many individuals with BED may struggle with obesity, although not all do. The relationship between BED and obesity is significant in clinical settings.

2. Emotional Eating: This term refers to eating in response to emotional cues rather than physical hunger, which is often a component of BED.

3. Food Addiction: Some researchers and clinicians use this term to describe the compulsive nature of binge eating, likening it to substance addiction.

4. Psychological Distress: This term encompasses the emotional and psychological challenges faced by individuals with BED, including anxiety and depression.

5. Disordered Eating: A broader term that includes various unhealthy eating behaviors, including binge eating, restrictive eating, and purging.

6. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5): The DSM-5 provides the criteria for diagnosing BED, which is essential for understanding its classification and treatment.

Conclusion

Understanding the alternative names and related terms for ICD-10 code F50.811 is crucial for healthcare professionals, researchers, and individuals affected by the disorder. These terms not only reflect the clinical aspects of Binge Eating Disorder but also highlight the emotional and psychological dimensions that accompany it. Recognizing these variations can aid in better communication and treatment strategies for those struggling with this condition.

Binge Eating Disorder (BED) is a significant mental health condition characterized by recurrent episodes of eating large quantities of food, often to the point of discomfort, accompanied by feelings of loss of control and distress. The ICD-10 code F50.811 specifically refers to moderate cases of this disorder. To diagnose BED, healthcare professionals typically rely on criteria outlined in the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5) and the International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10). Below, we explore the diagnostic criteria for Binge Eating Disorder, particularly focusing on the moderate classification.

Diagnostic Criteria for Binge Eating Disorder

1. Recurrent Episodes of Binge Eating

The primary criterion for diagnosing BED is the presence of recurrent episodes of binge eating, defined as consuming an unusually large amount of food in a discrete period (e.g., within two hours). This behavior must occur at least once a week for three months to meet the diagnostic threshold for moderate cases[1][2].

2. Lack of Control

During these binge episodes, individuals experience a sense of lack of control over their eating behavior. This feeling is crucial for distinguishing BED from other eating disorders, as it highlights the psychological component of the disorder[3].

3. Associated Features

The binge eating episodes are typically associated with three (or more) of the following features:
- Eating much more rapidly than normal.
- Eating until feeling uncomfortably full.
- Eating large amounts of food when not physically hungry.
- Eating alone due to embarrassment about the quantity of food consumed.
- Feeling disgusted with oneself, depressed, or very guilty afterward[4].

4. Absence of Compensatory Behaviors

Unlike Bulimia Nervosa, individuals with Binge Eating Disorder do not regularly engage in compensatory behaviors such as purging, fasting, or excessive exercise. This absence is a critical differentiator in the diagnosis[5].

5. Impact on Functioning

The binge eating episodes cause significant distress and impairment in social, occupational, or other important areas of functioning. This impact is essential for confirming the diagnosis and understanding the severity of the disorder[6].

Classification of Severity

The severity of Binge Eating Disorder is classified based on the frequency of binge eating episodes:
- Mild: 1-3 episodes per week.
- Moderate: 4-7 episodes per week (which corresponds to the F50.811 code).
- Severe: 8-13 episodes per week.
- Extreme: 14 or more episodes per week[7].

Conclusion

The diagnosis of Binge Eating Disorder, particularly the moderate classification represented by the ICD-10 code F50.811, involves a comprehensive assessment of eating behaviors, psychological factors, and the impact on daily functioning. Understanding these criteria is crucial for healthcare providers to offer appropriate treatment and support for individuals struggling with this disorder. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of BED, seeking professional help is essential for effective management and recovery.

References

1. ICD-10 Code for Binge eating disorder, moderate - F50.811.
2. DSM-5-TR® Update Supplement to Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders.
3. ICD-10-CM Code for Binge eating disorder F50.81.
4. New Diagnosis Codes for Obesity, Hypoglycemia, and Eating Disorders.
5. 2025 ICD-10-CM Codes F50*: Eating disorders.
6. Billing and Coding: Psychiatric Diagnostic Evaluation and Treatment.
7. New ICD-10-CM Codes for 2025.

Binge Eating Disorder (BED), classified under ICD-10 code F50.811, is characterized by recurrent episodes of eating large quantities of food, often quickly and to the point of discomfort, accompanied by feelings of loss of control and distress. The moderate severity of this disorder indicates that the individual experiences episodes of binge eating at least once a week but less than daily. Treatment approaches for BED typically involve a combination of psychological, nutritional, and medical interventions. Below is a detailed overview of standard treatment strategies.

Psychological Interventions

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy is one of the most effective treatments for BED. It focuses on identifying and changing negative thought patterns and behaviors associated with eating. CBT helps patients develop healthier coping mechanisms and improve their relationship with food. Studies have shown that CBT can significantly reduce binge eating episodes and improve psychological well-being[1].

Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT)

DBT is another therapeutic approach that has been adapted for BED. It emphasizes emotional regulation, distress tolerance, and interpersonal effectiveness. This therapy is particularly beneficial for individuals who struggle with emotional eating and may have co-occurring mood disorders[2].

Interpersonal Therapy (IPT)

Interpersonal Therapy focuses on improving interpersonal relationships and social functioning, which can be particularly relevant for individuals with BED. By addressing issues such as interpersonal conflicts and role transitions, IPT can help reduce binge eating behaviors[3].

Nutritional Counseling

Medical Nutrition Therapy

Medical Nutrition Therapy (MNT) involves working with a registered dietitian to develop a personalized eating plan. This approach emphasizes balanced nutrition and helps individuals understand their hunger cues, promoting a healthier relationship with food. MNT can also address any nutritional deficiencies that may arise from disordered eating patterns[4].

Structured Meal Plans

Creating structured meal plans can help individuals with BED establish regular eating patterns, reducing the likelihood of binge episodes. These plans often include guidance on portion sizes and meal timing, which can help stabilize blood sugar levels and reduce cravings[5].

Pharmacological Treatments

Medications

In some cases, medications may be prescribed to help manage BED. The FDA has approved certain medications, such as the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) sertraline, which has been shown to reduce binge eating episodes and improve mood. Other medications, such as lisdexamfetamine and topiramate, have also been used off-label with varying degrees of success[6][7].

Appetite Suppressants

Some clinicians may consider appetite suppressants as part of a comprehensive treatment plan, particularly for individuals struggling with obesity alongside BED. However, these should be used cautiously and under medical supervision due to potential side effects and the risk of dependency[8].

Support Groups and Community Resources

Peer Support Groups

Participating in support groups can provide individuals with BED a sense of community and understanding. These groups often focus on sharing experiences, coping strategies, and encouragement, which can be beneficial for recovery[9].

Online Resources

Various online platforms offer resources, forums, and virtual support groups for individuals with BED. These can be particularly helpful for those who may not have access to in-person support or prefer the anonymity of online interactions[10].

Conclusion

The treatment of Binge Eating Disorder, particularly in its moderate form (ICD-10 code F50.811), requires a multifaceted approach that combines psychological therapies, nutritional counseling, and, when necessary, pharmacological interventions. Each individual's treatment plan should be tailored to their specific needs, preferences, and any co-occurring conditions. Ongoing support and monitoring are crucial for long-term recovery and management of this disorder. If you or someone you know is struggling with BED, seeking professional help is an essential first step toward recovery.

References

1. Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Binge Eating Disorder.
2. Dialectical Behavior Therapy and its Application in Eating Disorders.
3. Interpersonal Therapy for Binge Eating Disorder.
4. Medical Nutrition Therapy for Eating Disorders.
5. Structured Meal Plans and Their Benefits.
6. FDA-Approved Medications for Binge Eating Disorder.
7. Off-Label Medications for Binge Eating Disorder.
8. Appetite Suppressants in the Treatment of Eating Disorders.
9. The Role of Support Groups in Eating Disorder Recovery.
10. Online Resources for Binge Eating Disorder Support.