Bulimia Eating Disorder
What is bulimia nervosa
The term, bulimia nervosa, means literally 'the hunger of an ox'. Unfortunately,
the hunger that most sufferers feel cannot be satisfied by food alone
- it is primarily an emotional need.
People with bulimia consume
large amounts of food and then rid their bodies of the excess calories
by purging (self-induced vomiting, misuse of laxatives or diuretics) or
by non-purging (excessive exercise, fasting) behaviors.
Some bulimics use a combination
of purging and non-purging behaviors. The cycle of overeating and purging
can quickly become an addictive behavior. Often, the individual will feel
a loss of control during over eating and the purging/exercise becomes
a way of regaining control.
Varies from person to person
The frequency of these bulimic cycles varies from person to person.
Some may experience an episode every few months, while other more serious
sufferers may binge and purge several times a day. Indeed, a few may vomit
after every meal. Yet again, some will eat socially and be bulimic in
private. The attitude of each sufferer to the condition also varies. Many
of them deny they have any sort of illness, while others are acutely aware
of their situation despite feeling powerless to do anything about it.
Can remain hidden
Because sufferers may not lose weight dramatically, their disorder may
be difficult to detect. In fact, even close family members may remain
ignorant. It may therefore remain undetected for months, even years. In
particular, the sufferer's severe lack of self-confidence will often remain
quite invisible. Indeed, people with bulimia may be relatively outgoing
and appear quite self-confident, and hold down successful, high-powered
jobs.
Who suffers from bulimia
nervosa?
As with anorexia, bulimia typically begins during adolescence. The
condition occurs most often in women, but is also found in men. Many people
who suffer from bulimia "binge and purge" in secret. They may maintain
normal or above normal body weight. Others may experience significant
weight fluctuations. Bulimia can occur in those with anorexia nervosa
or it can occur as a separate condition. The chances for recovery increase
the earlier bulimia nervosa is detected.
Signs of bulimia
Include:
-
Evidence of binge-eating,
including disappearance of large amounts of food in short periods.
-
The existence of wrappers
and containers indicating the consumption of large amounts of food.
-
Evidence of purging behaviors,
including frequent trips to the bathroom after meals, signs and/or
smells of vomiting, presence of wrappers or packages of laxatives
or diuretics.
-
Excessive, rigid exercise
regimen-the feeling to "burn off" calories taken in despite weather,
fatigue, illness, or injury.
-
Unusual swelling of the
cheeks or jaw area.
-
Calluses on the back of
the hands and knuckles from self-induced vomiting.
-
Discoloration or staining
of the teeth.
-
Irregular periods.
-
Lethargy and tiredness.
-
Creation of complex lifestyle
schedules or rituals to make time for binge-and-purge sessions.
-
Withdrawal from usual
friends and activities.
-
Shoplifting for food;
abnormal amounts of money spent on food.
-
Food disappearing unexpectedly.
-
In general, behaviors
and attitudes indicating that weight loss, dieting, and control of
food are becoming primary concerns.
What are the medical consequences
of bulimia?
Bulimia can be extremely harmful to the body. The type of purging
behavior used can have varied effects on different body systems.
-
Most complications of
bulimia result from electrolyte (salt in the blood) imbalance or trauma
from repeated purging behaviors.
-
Self-induced vomiting
can erode tooth enamel, increase dental cavities, and create a sensitivity
of the teeth to hot or cold food. Swelling and soreness in the salivary
glands (cheek area) can occur.
-
Also, repeat vomiting
can result in irritation and tears in the lining of the throat, esophagus,
and stomach (ulcers).
-
The misuse of laxatives
and diuretics results in the loss of sodium and potassium that can
damage the heart muscle, increasing the risk for irregular heartbeats,
heart failure, and/or death.
-
Also, misuse of laxatives
can result in chronic irregular bowel movements and constipation.
How is bulimia treated?
The treatment of bulimia should address both physical and psychological
needs of the person. The ultimate outcome of treatment is to restore physical
health and normal eating patterns. Many times treatment is undertaken
by a team of medical, nutritional, and mental health professionals to
evaluate the severity and meaning of the symptoms and to both prescribe
and provide care. It is essential that team members communicate regularly
about the patient and clarify their roles in treatment on an ongoing basis,
to the patient and the family, as well as to each other.
Specific eating disorders
For details, click Anorexia, Bulimia,
Binge Eating.
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