It is usually portrayed in movies as the disorder where teenage girls go to the bathroom in groups to throw up. However, bulimia is much more complex than that.
It is characterized by periods of uncontrolled binge eating followed by a form of purging. This happens on a regular basis, usually being diagnosed by a Doctor if the patient is binging and purging a few times a month.
There is still a daily diet that is followed and an extreme restriction of food intake. This usually leads to the binge and facilitates the continuation of the dangerous cycle. Usually individuals struggling with bulimia are of average weight or gain and lose weight quite frequently.
Behaviours can also include those of Anorexia. Many people with Bulimia are also starving themselves and have an intense fear of becoming fat. Some of the symptoms of Bulimia Nervosa are:
- fatigue
- lack of concentration
- skin and nail problems
- frequent weight fluctuations
- swollen salivary glands (puffy cheeks)
- irregular of absent menstrual cycle
- frequent dental problems
- hair loss
- anaemia
- social avoidance
- anxious
- skipping meals
- going to the bathroom alone after meals
- bloodshot/red and puffy eyes
- secretive behaviour
- excessive exercise
- distorted body image
- low self-esteem
- depression and moodinessBulimia can take over a person's life. There is no glamour or fashion in "trying it out." There will be an article soon dealing with things you can do if you suspect someone you know has an eating disorder.For books on bulimia, visit Gurze Books.
The copyright of the article Bulimia Nervosa in Bulimia is owned by Lori Henry. Permission to republish Bulimia Nervosa must be granted by the author in writing.
