|
Bulimia (ox-like hunger) can be more difficult to detect than anorexia because many girls and women with this disorder maintain a normal body weight. They consume large amounts of food, sometimes up to 5,000 calories worth, then purge themselves of the excess calories. Some do so by inducing vomiting, abusing laxatives or diuretics, taking enemas, fasting, or exercising obsessively. The condition tends to become most serious in late adolescence, but can develop at any age from early adolescence to age 40.
Bulimia is believed to be much more common than anorexia. As many as 10 percent of women may suffer from bulimia at some time in their lives, although it typically begins during adolescence. The disorder does not just strike females. An increasing number of males are being diagnosed with the condition. The National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders believes just as many men as women might have bulimia.
Like the anorexic, the bulimic usually is attempting to control weight. Over time, purging can become a destructive, uncontrollable process. Physical effects can be serious. Frequent vomiting can cause damage to the tissues of the throat and esophagus, and to the teeth. Bowel, liver and kidney problems, dehydration, and seizures are also possible. Electrolyte imbalance resulting in a risk of cardiac arrest is another danger.
Many people with bulimia do not seek help until they reach their 30s or 40s. By this time, their eating behavior is deeply ingrained and more difficult to change.
Danger Signs:
- Eating uncontrollably
- Purging by strict dieting, fasting, vigorous exercise, vomiting or abusing laxatives or diuretics
- Using the bathroom frequently after meals
- Preoccupation with body weight
- Depression
- Mood swings
- Feeling out of control
- Swollen glands in neck and face
- Heartburn
- Bloating
- Irregular periods
- Dental problems
- Constipation
- Indigestion
- Sore throat
- Vomiting blood
- Weakness, exhaustion
- Bloodshot eyes
|
|
|
External Sources
 |
National Eating Disorders Association
|
|
National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders
|
|
This article was reviewed and updated June 2007.
Return to the previous page
|
