Bulimia is a disease characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating or binge, accompanied by a sense of loss of control. Then the person using various methods, such as vomiting or laxative abuse to prevent weight gain.
The person with bulimia may also suffer from anorexia nervosa, an eating disorder that involves a chronic weight loss that progresses to severe starvation, but many bulimics do not suffer from anorexia.
Alternative Names
Eating Disorders: bulimia, bulimia nervosa, binge-purge behavior
Causes, incidence and risk factors
With bulimia, there may be episodes of excessive ingestion of foods as often as several times a day for many months. These binges cause a sense of autorechazo, which leads to compensatory behaviors such as induced vomiting or excessive exercise. A person with bulimia may also abuse laxatives, diuretics or enemas in order to prevent weight gain.
Such behaviors can be very dangerous and lead to serious medical complications over time. For example, stomach acid enters the esophagus (the tube from the mouth to the stomach) during frequent vomiting can permanently damage this area.
Women are affected more often than men. The affected person is usually aware that her eating pattern is abnormal and may experience fear or guilt associated with episodes of binge and purge. Although the behavior is usually secretive, clues to this disorder include overactivity, feeding habits or rituals, peculiar and frequent weighing. Body weight is usually normal, although the person may perceive themselves as overweight. If bulimia is accompanied by anorexia, body weight may be extremely low.
It is unknown the exact cause of bulimia, but it is thought that factors that contribute to its development are family problems, perfectionist and an overemphasis on physical appearance. Bulimia can be associated with depression and occurs more frequently in adolescent females.
Symptoms
* Binge eating
* Self-induced vomiting
* Inappropriate use of diuretics and laxatives
* Behavior excessively oriented towards
Exams and Tests
A dental exam may show dental cavities or gum infections (such as gingivitis). The enamel of the teeth may be eroded or pitted because of excessive exposure to acid in vomitus.
An extended study of blood chemistry may show an electrolyte imbalance (such as hypokalemia) or dehydration.
Treatment
Treatment focuses on breaking the cycle of binge and purge. Outpatient treatment may include techniques of behavior modification and individual therapy, group or family.
Antidepressant medications may be used in cases that involve the presence of depression.
Support Groups
Participation in self-help groups like Overeaters Anonymous may help some people with bulimia. The American Anorexia / Bulimia (American Anorexia / Bulimia Association) is a source of information on this problem. See support for eating disorders.
Expectations (prognosis)
Bulimia is a chronic and many people continue to have symptoms despite treatment. People with fewer medical complications of bulimia who are willing and able to engage in therapy tend to have a better chance of recovery.
Complications
* Pancreatitis
* Tooth decay
* Inflammation of the throat
* Electrolyte abnormalities
* Dehydration
* Constipation
* Rupture / rupture of the esophagus
Hemorrhoids
Calling your health care
Call your doctor if you or the child exhibits symptoms of any eating disorder, including bulimia.
Prevention
The elimination of social and cultural emphasis on physical perfection may eventually help reduce the frequency of this disorder.
Psychiatry Consultation
Psychology Consultation
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