What is Bulimia?
Bulimia, also called bulimia nervosa, is a psychological eating disorder. Bulimia is characterized by episodes of binge eating followed by inappropriate methods of weight control (purging). Inappropriate methods of weight control include vomiting, fasting, enemas, excessive use of laxatives and diuretics, or compulsive exercising. Excessive shape and weight concerns are also characteristics of bulimia. A binge is an episode where an individual eats a much larger amount of food than most people would in a similar situation. Binge eating is not a response to intense hunger. It is usually a response to depression, stress, or self esteem issues. During the binge episode, the individual experiences a loss of control. However, the sense of a loss of control is also followed by a short-lived calmness. The calmness is often followed by self-loathing. The cycle of overeating and purging usually becomes an obsession and is repeated often.
Bulimia was only diagnosed as its own eating disorder in the 1980s.
People with bulimia can look perfectly normal. Most of them are of normal weight, and some may be overweight. Women with bulimia tend to be high achievers.
It is often difficult to determine whether a person is suffering from Bulimia. This occurs because binging and purging is often done in secret. Also, individuals suffering from Bulimia often deny their condition.
Sufferers consume huge quantities of food. Sometimes up to 20,000 calories at a time. The foods on which they binge tend to be foods labelled as "comfort foods" -- sweet foods, high in calories, or smooth, soft foods like ice cream, cake, and pastry. An individual may binge anywhere from twice a day to several times daily.
What are the symptoms of Anorexia and Bulimia?
Eating uncontrollably, purging, strict dieting, fasting, vigorous exercise,
Vomiting or exploiting the use of laxatives or diuretics in an attempt to lose weight. Vomiting blood
Using the bathroom frequently after meals.
Preoccupation with body weight
Depression or mood swings. Feeling out of control.
Swollen glands in neck and face
Heartburn, bloating, indigestion, constipation
Irregular periods, dental problems, sore throat
Weakness, exhaustion bloodshot eyes
Bulimia Statistics
Bulimia affects about 10% of college age women in the United States.
About 10% of individuals diagnosed with bulimia are men.
10% of individuals suffering from bulimia will die from starvation, cardiac arrest, other medical complications, or suicide.
What are the causes of Bulimia?
There is currently no definite known cause of bulimia. Researchers believe it begins with dissatisfaction of the person's body and extreme concern with body size and shape. Usually individuals suffering from bulimia have low self-esteem, feelings of helplessness and a fear of becoming fat.
What are the causes of Anorexia?
Research about the causes of anorexia is not definitive, and no one yet knows the exact cause. A combination of biological, social, and psychological factors may cause anorexia.
What are the long-term effects of Anorexia?
The long-term effects of anorexia on the body and mind can be alarming and severe. Women with anorexia tend to find it more difficult to become pregnant, and there is the possibility of developing osteoporosis later in life. Fortunately, many of these effects can be reversed - once the body receives proper and regular nourishment.
Once the person is on the path to recovery, it can take some weeks or months for the body and mind to re-adjust. Eating and drinking regularly can cause their body to become bloated temporarily. Personality and mood swings may also take a while to settle, depending on the emotional difficulties associated with anorexia. Anorexia and the family Anorexia not only affects the person with the disorder - the whole family is affected. Each family is different but some common trends have been identified.
What are the long-term effects of Bulimia?
Your blood potassium levels can drop significantly with regular vomiting or use of certain diuretics. This can disturb your heart's rhythm and even produce sudden death. Salivary glands may swell because of infection and irritation from the vomit. You may at some point suffer from stomach ulcers and bleeding and tears in your oesophagus. Constipation may result from frequent laxative use. When bulimic episodes occur over time, a sequence of chronic illnesses can occur affecting your heart, liver, gastrointestinal tract, and/or neurological complications.
If I know someone that has an eating disorder what should I do?
Give them a lot of support.
Be prepared for resistance, denial and possibly even anger.
Advise them to see an eating disorder expert.
Advise that a doctor or a counsellor can help them battle their disorder.
