Overview

Bulimia nervosa, commonly known as bulimia, is a serious and potentially life-threatening eating disorder. Individuals with bulimia engage in secretive binge-eating episodes, consuming large amounts of food and feeling a loss of control over their eating. Following the binge, they resort to unhealthy methods to get rid of the extra calories and prevent weight gain.

Methods used to purge calories include self-induced vomiting, misuse of laxatives, diuretics, or enemas, excessive exercise, fasting, and strict dieting. Bulimia is not solely about food; it is closely linked to self-image, making it difficult to overcome. However, with effective treatment, individuals can improve their self-esteem, develop healthier eating patterns, and address serious complications.

Symptoms

Signs and symptoms of bulimia include:

• Preoccupation with body shape and weight
• Fear of gaining weight
• Recurring episodes of binge eating with a loss of control
• Engaging in purging behaviors after bingeing
• Using laxatives, diuretics, or enemas inappropriately
• Fasting, restricting calories, or avoiding certain foods between binges
• Excessive use of dietary supplements or herbal products for weight loss

The severity of bulimia is assessed based on the frequency of purging, usually occurring at least once a week for three months or more.

When to See a Doctor

If you or someone you know is exhibiting bulimia symptoms, seek medical help as soon as possible. Untreated bulimia can have severe health consequences. Reach out to a primary care provider or a mental health professional to discuss the symptoms and feelings associated with bulimia. If seeking treatment is difficult, confide in someone you trust, who can offer support and help you take the first steps towards successful treatment.

Helping a Loved One with Bulimia Symptoms

If you suspect a loved one has bulimia symptoms, have an open and honest discussion about your concerns. Although you cannot force someone to seek professional care, you can offer encouragement and support. Help find a qualified doctor or mental health professional, make an appointment, and offer to accompany them if needed.

Red flags that family and friends may notice include constant worries about weight, distorted and excessively negative body image, repeated episodes of binge eating, secretive eating behaviors, and excessive exercise.

Causes

The exact cause of bulimia is not known. It may be influenced by genetics, biology, emotional health, societal expectations, and other factors.

Risk Factors

Girls and women are more likely to have bulimia than boys and men. Risk factors for bulimia include:

• Family history of eating disorders
• Psychological and emotional issues like depression, anxiety, or substance use disorders
• Dieting and weight-control behaviors

Complications

Bulimia can lead to several serious and life-threatening complications, including heart problems, dehydration, digestive issues, and mental health disorders such as anxiety and depression.

Prevention

Although preventing bulimia is not guaranteed, you can promote healthier behaviors or seek professional treatment early on. Foster a healthy body image in children, have regular family meals, avoid discussions about weight at home, discourage unhealthy dieting, and talk to a primary care provider about early signs of eating disorders.