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Definition    

Bulimia is an illness characterized by food binges followed by purging-done through vomiting, exercise, or laxative abuse-to prevent weight gain. People with bulimia nay also be suffering from anorexia nervosa, which is a closely related eating disorder that involves weight loss through starvation.

Causes, incidence, and risk factors of Bulimia

Among bulimics, eating binges may occur as often as several times daily for many months. Binges often lead to a feeling of self-disgust, which in turn triggers the desire to purge the food in some way. A person with bulimia often abuses other substances such as laxatives, diuretics, or enemas in order to prevent weight gain. These behaviors are dangerous and lead to medical complications over time. Stomach acid introduced into the esophagus through repeated vomiting can erode and damage this area permanently.
Although more women than men have bulimia, a growing number of men are diagnosed with this disease as well. Adolescent girls suffer from the disease in growing numbers.
Since the affected person might be intellectually aware that the eating pattern is abnormal, this leads to more feelings of shame and guilt associated with these behaviors. The behavior is usually very secretive and involves frequent weighing and strange OCD-type eating rituals.

The body weight in a bulimic is usually normal, although the person may perceive themselves as overweight. Body weight might be extremely low if the person is anorexic.
Although the exact cause of bulimia is unknown, but factors thought to contribute to its development are family problems, perfectionist personality, and an overemphasis on physical appearance. Symptoms of bulimia include overachieving behavior, inappropriate use of laxatives, enemas, or diuretics, self-induced vomiting, and binge eating.

Signs and tests   

Dental cavities and gum infections that result from the acid in the vomit might confirm a diagnosis. The tooth enamel in a bulimic might be eroded due to this acid. Laboratory tests might show a deficiency in electrolytes as well.

The patient usually has a bloated, full-moon face due to the repeated self-induced vomiting.

Treatment    

Treatment prioritizes breaking the binge-purge cycle through behavior modification techniques as well as individual, group, or family counseling.

What to expect in the long run

Bulimia is a chronic illness and many people continue to have some symptoms despite treatment. People with fewer medical complications of bulimia, and who are willing and able to engage in therapy, tend to have a better chance of recovery. Therapy is one of the most important parts of recovery from bulimia, as physical recovery only stands to be undone by repeated habits on the part of the patient.

Common complications of this disease include dental problems, throat inflammation, abnormal electrolyte levels, dehydration, constipation, hemorrhoids, esophageal tears, and pancreas problems.