Bulimia nervosa << boo LEE mee uh or byoo LIHM ee uh nur VOH suh >> is a serious eating disorder characterized by recurring episodes of binge eating followed by certain behaviors to prevent weight gain. Binge eating involves eating an excessive amount of food in a brief period. Binge eating is distinguished from simple overeating by a loss of control. That is, in binge eating the person feels compelled to overeat, has difficulty stopping once started, and often eats until uncomfortably full. After bingeing, most individuals with bulimia purge (eliminate) the food. They may do so by making themselves vomit. Or they may take large doses of laxatives to help empty the bowels. Some individuals with bulimia try to burn off the calories consumed during a binge by exercising excessively. Others temporarily restrict their food intake. Unlike individuals with anorexia nervosa, those with bulimia tend to be within the normal weight range. Anorexia nervosa is a disorder in which a person eats too little and experiences significant weight loss (see Anorexia nervosa).
Bulimia typically emerges in late adolescence and early adulthood, starting, on average, at the age of 18. However, the disorder can affect adults at any age. Bulimia affects people of all genders, races, ethnicities, sexual orientations, and social and economic statuses. While bulimia most commonly occurs in girls and women, about one-third of the individuals affected are boys and men.
Bulimia is associated with serious health risks, including damage to teeth and gums from the acid in vomit, persistent sore throat, ruptures of the esophagus, digestive issues, dehydration, and abnormal electrolyte levels in the body. Electrolytes are substances that conduct electric current and play a role in many important bodily functions. Bulimia is also associated with increased risk of premature death.
The major symptoms of bulimia are binge eating and purging. Signs of binge eating include large amounts of food disappearing in short periods. Signs of purging include frequent trips to the bathroom after meals; skipped meals; avoidance of eating with others; preoccupation with food, body size, and weight; compulsive exercise without enjoyment; and social withdrawal. Many individuals with bulimia experience significant anxiety, depression, or drug-use disorders, and may have a history of trauma (emotional shock).
Bulimia is a biologically influenced illness. Genes and environment are both involved in the development of bulimia. The disorder is also associated with complex neurological and psychological factors that create difficulties with self-control. Bulimia is considered a brain-based disorder, like all other psychiatric disorders.
Full recovery from bulimia is possible. There are a number of evidence-based treatments for bulimia. A patient’s treatment may include medication as well as individual, family, or group therapy. Treatment is available at various levels of intensity, from full-time or part-time hospitalization to weekly outpatient appointments.
