Bulimia NervosaBulimia Nervosa is an eating disorder that is characterized by alternating episodes of binging and purging. The person will eat a lot of food in a short period of time and then purge the food by inducing vomiting, taking laxatives or exercising excessively. The purging is due to the fact that the person feels guilty for the amount of food eaten or harbors an irrational fear of gaining weight. People suffering from this eating disorder may be obsessed with their weight and body shape, which leads to the binging and purging pattern. This eating disorder is very serious, and can become life threatening if it is left unchecked. Unfortunately, many patients with this condition maintain a normal weight, so it may be difficult to detect bulimia until it has taken its toll on the body. Medical experts do not know what causes this disorder. Some believe that risk factors may include a genetic predisposition to the condition, which means that if a person is diagnosed with this eating disorder, family members may be more likely to develop it as well. Other possible risk factors might be a job that requires excessive concern over one's appearance, a person who strives for perfection or someone dealing with stressful life events. The condition is quite common with teenage girls but adult women can also be diagnosed with this eating disorder. It is rare to see bulimia in the male population, but a few cases are reported each year.
• Bloating and irregular bowel function If any of these symptoms are seen, it is important to seek medical help as soon as possible. Bulimia Nervosa is a potentially life threatening condition that can be treated much more effectively in the early stages of the disorder.
Once the patient is physically stable, treatment for Bulimia Nervosa may include psychotherapy and nutritional counseling. Psychotherapy will involve identifying unhealthy beliefs that led to the condition and replacing them with positive ones. In some cases, therapy to improve interpersonal skills can also help in the treatment of this condition. Most patients find that combining psychotherapy with nutritional counseling is the best way to turn from harmful behaviors of bulimia to healthier eating habits. This approach can also effectively deal with the underlying psychological issues that led to the eating disorder in the first place.
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