Eating Disorders Defined: Bulimia Nervosa

Bulimia Nervosa is a potentially life-threatening eating disorder characterized by secret cycles of bingeing and purging.

Statistics

Did you know that...

• Bulimia affects up to three percent of middle/high school girls and up to four percent of college age women?
• Approximately 80 percent of bulimia patients are female?
• People with bulimia often appear to have an average body weight?
• Many people with bulimia often recognize their behavior is destructive?

Bulimia can lead to some extreme health problems. Here are a few that can occur:

• Electrolyte imbalances: These lead to irregular heartbeats and eventually heart failure. It’s caused by dehydration and potassium and sodium deficiencies from purging.
• Esophagus inflammation and possible rupture from frequent vomiting
• Irregular bowel movements and constipation
• Peptic ulcers
• Pancreatitis

Symptoms & Warning Signs

Symptoms can include the following:

• Consuming large amounts of food in a short time, usually secretly
• Following food binges with a form of purging: laxatives, diuretics, fasting, obsessive exercise, self-induced vomiting, etc.
• Extreme concern with body weight/shape

If you are concerned about someone, watch for the following warning signs:

• Calluses on back of hands (from self-induced vomiting)
• Stained/discolored teeth
• Extreme concern with weight loss, dieting and food control
• Unusual swelling in cheeks or jaw
• Evidence of binge eating (disappearance of large amounts of food)
• Evidence of purging (frequent trips to bathroom after meals, signs/smells of vomiting, presence of laxatives or diuretics)
• Social withdrawal

For More Information

For more information about bulimia or to learn about South Coast Medical Center's Eating Disorder program, call (949) 499-7504. Or email us with your questions.