Bulimia

Bulimia Eating Disorder Treatment

Bulimia is characterized by excessive or compulsive consumption of food (bingeing) accompanied by the act of getting rid of the food consumed (purging). Individuals suffering from bulimia often describe their struggle as feeling a complete loss of control when eating. This feeling leads to a regular intake of an excessive amount of food in a short period of time, ending with the ridding of the food through purging. The compensatory behaviors of purging include self-induced vomiting, laxative or diuretic abuse, periods of fasting, and/or excessive or compulsive exercise episodes.

Physical Symptoms:

• Chronic sore throat
• Heartburn/reflux
• Swollen cheeks and neck
• Bloating
• Fatigue/fainting
• Dry skin
• Muscle cramping
• Gum disease/bleeding
• Broken blood vessels in the eyes and/or face
• Discoloration of teeth
• Calluses on knuckles and/or back of hands (from self-induced vomiting)
• Fluctuation in weight

Behavioral Symptoms:

• Bingeing and purging
• Consuming a large amount of food in a short period of time
• Preoccupation with food & body weight
• Hoarding or hiding food
• Frequent visits to the bathroom (especially after eating)
• Secretive eating (finding food wrappers in bedroom/bathroom)
• Abuse of laxatives, diuretics, and/or diet pills
• Excessive exercising
• Isolation from friends and family
• Shame and guilt related to eating behaviors
• Poor self-esteem

Coexisting disorders may be present in a diagnosis of bulimia. Ensure a thorough evaluation for the eating disorder to identify any co-occurring or comorbid conditions.

Psychiatric conditions commonly co-occurring with bulimia may be combined with:

• Bipolar Disorder
• Borderline Personality Disorder
• Depression
• Obsessive Compulsive Personality Disorder (OCPD)
• Panic/Anxiety disorders
• Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)
• Substance Abuse

Individuals often fail to understand the true dangers associated with bulimia. This may be due to the absence of extreme weight loss and the fact that physical symptoms can go unnoticed. However, the health complications associated with bingeing and purging episodes are significant and can be life-threatening.

Common Health Concerns

• Dehydration
• May lead to Type 2 Diabetes/Pancreatitis
• Electrolyte Imbalance
• Lining of stomach torn
• Chronic Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS)
• Gastrointestinal complications
• Esophagus inflammation and perhaps rupture
• Chronic Kidney problems
• Seizures

Although these are typical symptoms, it’s important to note that not all need to be present to indicate the severity of the eating disorder.