Bulimia Nervosa
Overview
Risk Factors
Bulimia is more common in young women. Other things that may raise the risk are:
- Low self-esteem
- Feelings of helplessness
- Wanting to be perfect
- Fear of gaining weight
- Not being happy with weight and size
- Pressure to be thin
- Having other family members with the same problems
- Emotional stress
- Prior obesity or anorexia
- Having other mental health problems, such as depression or anxiety
- Substance use disorder
- A way of life that highlights being thin as ideal
SymptomsandDiagnosis
Symptoms
People with bulimia have a healthy weight. But, their habits are not healthy. Bulimia may cause:
- Eating of large amounts of food at one time
- Feeling like eating is not in one's control
- Forced vomiting
- Taking of laxatives, enemas, diuretics, or diet pills
- Too much exercise
- Mood swings
- Problems with impulse control
- Misuse of alcohol or other substances
Physical problems may be:
- Belly pain
- Heartburn
- Menstrual problems
- Swollen cheeks and jaw
- Sore throat
- Swollen glands in the mouth and throat
- Bloating
- Stained or chipped teeth—because of contact with stomach acid
- Cuts or scars on back of hands—from scraping skin on teeth during forced vomiting
Diagnosis
The doctor will ask about symptoms, past health, and eating habits. A physical and mental health exam will be done. Other tests may be:
- Blood tests to look for electrolyte imbalances
- ECG to check heart function
ECG |
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Bulimia can lead to severe heart problems. |
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Treatments
Treatment
The goal of treatment is to develop healthy habits and thought patterns. Treatment can include a combination of:
- Nutrition counseling and support
- Mental health counseling methods, such as individual or group cognitive-behavioral therapy
- Vitamins and minerals
- Antidepressants along with therapy
This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.
Edits to original content made by Denver Health.
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