What is Bulimia Nervosa?
Bulimia nervosa has potentially fatal consequences if it is not treated. It is a very serious eating disorder that is characterized by a cycle of "binges" followed by "purges". It is called a "binge" when the patient consumes a large amount of food very quickly. "Purging" refers to the attempt to get the food out of their body in order to prevent it from being digested. There are several ways in which bulimics purge, such as self-induced vomiting, laxative abuse, and excessive exercise.
Bulimia nervosa can lead to a number of psychological problems such as depression and anxiety disorders. Impulsive behaviour can also lead the person to self-destructive or dangerous situations. Bulimia nervosa is also associated with many physical problems that include heart problems, kidney damage, and damage to the digestive system. People with this eating disorder are at a higher risk of self-mutilation, developing a substance abuse problem, and engaging in sexual promiscuity. Bulimia nervosa is usually first noticed in the teenage years. It is much more prevalent in women than men.
Patients with bulimia nervosa usually feel that they have lost control of themselves during their cycle of bingeing and purging. This sense of loss of control leads to intense feelings of shame and low self-worth. They will go to great lengths to hide their eating behaviour as a result of this shame which makes it difficult for family and friends to identify the problem until it has been present for quite some time.
Bulimia Nervosa : Signs and Symptoms
There are a number of ways to assess if somebody has this eating disorder. You should always consult with a medical doctor if there is any doubt. Some of the
signs you should look out for are:
Psychological signs:
- An obsession with food
- Obsessing about body weight and appearance
- Repeated episodes of bingeing and purging at least twice a week for at least 3 months
- Excessive exercise and dieting
- Strongly self-critical
- Depressed mood
- Shame and guilt
- Swollen salivary glands
- Swollen cheeks and other general swelling
- Irregular menstrual cycle
- Constipation
- Abdominal pain and bloating
- Overall weakness
- Dental erosion
Bulimia Nervosa : Causes and Treatment
Our science is yet to isolate a cause for Bulimia Nervosa and it is currently thought to be the result of a number of factors which work together to produce the illness. These factors include psychological issues like emotional coping styles, stress, developmental concerns and physical issues like a biological or genetic susceptibility. Inter-cultural studies show that societies which have a "thin ideal" image of attractiveness are more likely to produce individuals with this eating disorder.
Treatment for Bulimia Nervosa should start with a complete physical examination by a medical doctor. Because this eating disorder can produce a diverse range of physical problems it is important that the patients medical health be stabilised so that they can begin therapy. Therapy usually consists of a blend of approaches that aim to help the patient develop insight into the core issues that underpin their eating disorder. Bulimia nervosa treatment is a specialised discipline and is usually provided by a therapist who has trained especially to deal with this illness. The counselor will work on providing a safe and confidential environment that encourages the patient to relax and feel that they can explore their underlying core issues. The client will be given the opportunity to learn new ways of coping and develop healthier eating patterns.
