NHS hospitals use coma treatments for severe anorexia cases

The NHS is using coma treatment as a last resort for young women with severe anorexia. Patients are sedated and tube-fed in intensive care, with some remaining in comas for weeks. This approach has raised concerns among medical experts. At least six patients have undergone this treatment, including a 20-year-old who has been in a coma for 19 days. Doctors are struggling to manage her condition, and there is uncertainty about her recovery. The number of children hospitalized for eating disorders has increased significantly, with admissions rising over 500% in the past decade. New guidelines are being developed to address the ethical and practical aspects of this coma treatment.