Bulimia Nervosa
Overview
Risk Factors
Bulimia is more common in young women. It is also more common in lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender youth. Other things that may raise the risk are:
- Emotional concerns, such as:
- Low self-esteem
- Feelings of helplessness
- Wanting to be perfect
- Stress
- Fear of gaining weight
- Not being happy with weight and size
- Pressure to be thin
- Having other family members with the same problems
- 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 usually have a healthy weight. But, their habits are not healthy. They may:
- Eat large amounts of food at one time
- Feel like their eating is out of control
- Force themselves to vomit
- Take laxatives, enemas, diuretics, or diet pills
- Exercise too much
- Have mood swings and problems controlling impulses
- Misuse alcohol or other substances
Physical problems from bulimia may be:
- Digestive problems, such as:
- Belly pain
- Bloating
- Heartburn
- Menstrual problems
- Swollen cheeks and jaw
- Sore throat
- Swollen glands in the mouth and throat
- Stained or chipped teeth—due to contact with stomach acid
- Cuts or scars on back of hands—from scraping skin on teeth during forced vomiting
Bulimia can lead to other health problems. Some examples are:
- Mineral imbalances
- Gastroesophageal reflux
- An inflamed or torn food pipe (esophagus)
- Dependence on laxatives
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
Those with more severe symptoms may need hospital care.
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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