Transcript Bulimia Nervosa

What Is Bulimia?
Bulimia Nervosa is an eating disorder that involves cycles of
overeating and purging, or attempts to rid the body of food. Though
anyone can get bulimia at any time, 85% to 90% of bulimics are
female, and it often strikes in the teen and young adult years.
People with bulimia regularly go on binges, eating a huge amount of
food in a single sitting. During the binge they may feel out of control,
often gulping down food too fast to taste it. After the binge, they
purge, forcing themselves to vomit or taking laxatives to flush the food
out of their systems. Instead of purging, some people with bulimia
may fast or exercise frantically after a binge.
Bulimia Symptom: Weight Obsession
Unlike anorexia, people with bulimia are usually in the normal weight
range for their age and height.
But they're deeply afraid of gaining weight. Bulimics share the same
fear of weight gain and dissatisfaction with their bodies. In the grip of
the illness, those with normal body weight and size may believe
they're actually terribly fat, called a distorted body image. The drive to
lose weight can also lead people to abuse diet pills.
Bulimia Symptom: Depression
Bulimia is more than just a problem with food. For many people, the
cycle of food binges and purging is an attempt to control negative
feelings. It's common for people with bulimia to struggle with
depression, anxiety, or substance abuse. Someone with bulimia may be
moody or irritable and may withdraw from friends and family.
Bulimia: Other Symptoms
The physical effects of bulimia can include:
• A chronic sore and inflamed throat
• Damaged teeth from stomach acid from vomiting
• Swollen salivary glands in the cheeks
• Heartburn
• Constipation and other digestive problems
• Dehydration
• May also damage stomach, intestines, or kidneys.
• Chemical imbalances can lead to irregular heart rhythms, heart
failure, and death.
Diagnosing Bulimia
To diagnose bulimia, a doctor will ask about a history of bingeing and
purging. Many people deny and hide these behaviors, which can make
it tough to get a diagnosis and proper treatment. If you suspect bulimia,
talk to a health care professional. The earlier a person gets treatment for
bulimia, the more likely they are to recover completely.
Talk and Support
If you think a loved one is struggling with an eating disorder, don't
hesitate to talk about it. Do voice your concerns respectfully, avoiding
guilt or blame. Focus on the specific behaviors that worry you, and
encourage the person to get help. Though you can't force a person to
change, you can let them know that they have your support.
Treating Bulimia
Treatment for bulimia is most successful when a combination of
therapies are tailored to the individual. Nutritional counseling and
therapy can help the person establish healthy eating habits and develop
a better relationship with food and eating. Research has shown that
antidepressants can help break the cycle of bingeing and purging and
prevent relapses.