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 depresión, streess, 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.

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 bingeing and purging is often done in secret. Also, individuals suffering from Bulimia often deny their condition.

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. As with many mental illnesses, it’s thought that a variety of factors are at play, including biological, psychological and sociocultural issues:

  • Biological. Some people may be genetically vulnerable to developing bulimia. Young women with a biological sister or mother with an eating disorder are at higher risk, for example, suggesting a possible genetic link. Studies of twins also support that idea. However, it’s not clear specifically how genetics plays a role. In addition, there’s some evidence that serotonin, a naturally occurring brain chemical, may influence eating behaviors because of its connection to the regulation of food intake.
  • Psychological. People with bulimia may have psychological and emotional characteristics that contribute to the disease. They may have low self-worth, for instance, as well as perfectionism. They may have trouble controlling impulsive behaviors, managing moods or expressing anger. The families of people with bulimia may tend to have more conflicts, along with more criticism and unpredictability. There may be a history of sexual abuse.
  • Sociocultural. Modern Western culture generally cultivates and reinforces a desire for thinness. Success and worth are often equated with being thin. Peer pressure may fuel this desire to be thin, particularly among young girls.

Medical Treatment

Treatment of bulimia usually involves counseling and behavioral therapy. Most eating disorders are not about food but about self-esteem and self-perception. Therapy is most effective when it concentrates on the issues that cause the behavior, rather than on the behavior itself.

Individual therapy, combined with group therapy and family therapy, is often the most helpful. Group therapy, where people with the same disease get together and share their experiences, seems to work well for people with bulimia. Often counseling is combined with the use of antidepressant medication. Facilities experienced in the treatment of eating disorders are recommended.

Any serious medical problem related to an eating disorder may require hospitalization. Electrolyte imbalances will be corrected and fluids will be given to rehydrate. IV nutrition may even be required. Even if immediate hospitalization isn’t needed for medical treatment, the doctor may request an urgent referral to a psychiatric facility for evaluation.

Complications

Bulimia may cause a host of serious and even life-threatening complications. The specific complications you experience may be related to your choice of purging method, such as overexercise or laxative abuse, and how severe your condition is.

Physical complications of bulimia include:

  • Death
  • Anemia
  • Heart problems, such as abnormal heart rhythms and heart failure
  • Tooth decay
  • In females, absence of a period
  • Gastrointestinal problems, such as constipation, bloating or nausea
  • Electrolyte abnormalities, such as low blood potassium, sodium and chloride

In addition to the host of physical complications, people with bulimia also commonly have other mental health issues, too. They may include:

  • Depression
  • Suicide
  • Anxiety disorders
  • Drug abuse
  • Alcohol abuse
  • Excessive stress
  • Self-injury behaviors

Prevention

While there’s no sure way to prevent bulimia, there may be ways to help. For instance, pediatricians may be in a good position to identify early indicators of an eating disorder and help prevent its development. During routine well-child checks or medical appointments, they can ask children questions about their eating habits and satisfaction with their appearance. In addition, parents can cultivate and reinforce a healthy body image in their children no matter what their size or shape. Be sure not to tease or joke about a child’s size, shape or appearance.

If you notice a family member or friend with low self-esteem, severe dieting, disordered eating behaviors and dissatisfaction with appearance, consider talking to her or him about these issues. Although you may not be able to prevent an eating disorder from developing, your encouragement can steer someone toward healthier behavior or professional treatment before the situation worsens.

A Family Member has an Eating Disorder

If you have a family member that with an Eating Disorder, your family member needs a lot of support. Suggest that your family member see an eating disorder expert. Be prepared for denial, resistance, and even anger. A doctor and/or a counselor can help them battle their eating disorder.

Sources: Mamashealth, E Medicine Health

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