Bulimia

Facts About Bulimia

Those with bulimia binge on large quantities of food and then usually purge by vomiting, abusing laxatives or diuretics, or taking enemas. Some with bulimia do not purge, but compensate for eating by over-exercising or fasting.

Although the number of males who develop eating disorders is increasing, bulimia most frequently afflicts adolescent girls and young women. The National Institute of Mental Health estimates that 1.1% to 4.2% of females have bulimia at some point in their lives. Bulimia can affect people of practically any age. It is increasingly common in pre-teens and can affect seniors, too. Many have multiple disorders; many bulimics are also binge eaters.

Medical Impact of Bulimia

Frequent binging and purging of food can have severe medical consequences. Purging can result in the loss of minerals the body needs to function properly, resulting in an electrolyte imbalance. This imbalance can result in irregular heartbeats, increasing the potential for heart failure and death. Those who use drugs to stimulate vomiting, bowel movements or urination further increase the risk of heart failure.

Frequent vomiting can cause other health problems, such as inflammation or tearing of the esophagus, and swollen glands. Acid from vomit can wear down the protective layer of a person's teeth. Those with bulimia often have irregular menstrual periods and lowered interest in sex.

Many bulimia patients have other mental disorders, such as depression, anxiety and obsessive-compulsive disorder. They also may be addicted to drugs or alcohol.

Signs of Bulimia

Those with bulimia can frequently hide their affliction, because bulimics often maintain a normal body weight. Physical signs may include swollen glands, discolored teeth and calluses on the hands caused by self-inducing vomiting.

Bulimics are always extremely concerned with their body weight and shape, and they may have a distorted image of their body.

Look for evidence of binging and purging. Bingers may hide food. Excessive amounts of food containers and wrappers are also evidence of binging. Evidence of purging may include the frequent smell of vomit, excessive trips to the bathroom after meals, and excessive exercise taking place in spite of weather, illness, injury or other factors. Frequent purchasing of laxatives or diuretics, or disposal of packaging for such products is another sign.

Bulimics often create complex schedules to make time for binging and purging. They are often socially withdrawn, and become obsessed with weight loss and controlling food.

Causes of Bulimia

Causes of bulimia vary, but there are usually a variety of contributing factors. A traumatic event, which may have taken place years before bulimia manifested itself, is often a cause. Such events may include:

• Sexual abuse or rape
• Emotional abuse
• Parents' divorce
• Death of a loved one
• Physical violence

Some people perceive bulimia as a way to cope with problems when they feel out of control.

Helping Someone With Bulimia

If you suspect you or someone you know has bulimia, do something about it. Bulimia is a life-threatening disease. Seek professional counseling immediately.

For help, contact Walden Behavioral Care at 781-647-6700 or Info@waldenbehavioralcare.com.