Information From Your Health Care Provider

BULIMIA

Basic information

description

Bulimia is an eating disorder. A person with bulimia eats larger amounts of food (called binging) than most people would eat in a short time. Then they purge (such as with self-induced vomiting or other methods) to rid themselves of the food and avoid weight gain. They may also use nonpurging methods such as fasting or exercising too much. There can be numerous symptoms including behavioral, physical, and emotional effects. Bulimia affects both sexes (women much more than men). It often starts in the teen years.

FREQUENT SIGNS & SYMPTOMS

Episodes of binge eating. Eating in secret or in hiding.
Denial of hunger.
Self-induced vomiting that occurs after eating.
Frequent trips to the bathroom after meals.
Frequent use of laxatives, water pills, or diet pills.
Excess exercising.
Consistently aspires to achieve or overachieve.
Obsessed with body image, appearance, and weight.
A "chipmunk" like appearance. It may include swelling of the cheeks, face, or salivary glands.
Lack of menstrual periods.
Depression, anxiety, or mood swings. Feeling out of control. Low self-esteem or poor self-identity.
Heartburn, bloating, indigestion, and constipation.
Dental problems and sore throat.
Weakness and tiredness. Bloodshot eyes. Dry skin.

causes

There is no single known cause. Factors that play a role include emotional and psychological factors, genetics, and cultural pressures (e.g., feel pressured to be very thin).

risk increases with

Young females, compulsive and perfectionistic type persons, dieters, and those overly concerned about weight.
Stress, including lifestyle changes, such as moving, starting at a new school or job, or relationship breakup.
Personality disorders.
Sports, work, or artistic activities. These can include athletes, actors, television personalities, dancers, models, gymnasts, runners, boxers, and wrestlers.
Homosexual males.

PREVENTIVE MEASURES

No specific preventive measures. Early treatment may help keep it from progressing.

expected outcomes

Outcome varies. If patients desire to change, they can often be helped with therapy. For some patients, it may continue long-term. Others may just have episodes of bulimia that occur with life events and crisis.

possible complications

Many mental and physical health problems can develop. They can be serious and life-threatening.

diagnosis & treatment

general measures

Your health care provider can often diagnose bulimia with a physical exam and by asking questions about your symptoms, eating habits, and weight concerns. There is no one test to diagnose bulimia. Medical tests may be done to check for possible underlying disorder, physical problems, or complications.
Denial of the severity or even the existence of a problem is common in patients. Most patients resist treatment and behavior change at first. Some want a quick and easy solution that is not feasible.
Treatment goals include: healthy eating patterns, maintaining normal weight, and preventing a relapse.
Treatment may include counseling for the patient and the family, nutritional help, and drug therapy if needed.
Care in a hospital or special facility may be required.
A dental exam is usually recommended.
Counseling can change how you think about food and about yourself and how you handle feelings such as anger, anxiety, and feeling hopeless or helpless.
Support groups may help some patients.
To learn more: National Eating Disorders Association, 603 Stewart St., Suite 803, Seattle WA 98101; (800) 931-2237; website: www.nationaleatingdisorders.org.

medications

Drugs for depression or anxiety may be prescribed.
Vitamin and mineral supplements may be prescribed.

activity

May be limited at first. Then the person should exercise for enjoyment and fitness and not to lose weight.