Due to the complexity of Bulimia Nervosa symptoms and behaviors, they are often divided into two subtypes: Purging Type and Non-Purging Type. Bulimia Nervosa — Purging Type refers to the most commonly understood version of Bulimia Nervosa behaviors. Those that struggle with non-purging bulimia engage in compensatory behaviors that do not actively involve expelling the food from the body.
Instead, these individuals will engage in fasting or exercising behaviors to compensate and do not regularly engage in purging behaviors if they do at all. The best way to combat bulimia and increase the likelihood of long-term recovery is early intervention.
This begins with early detection through awareness of signs and symptoms. Bulimia Nervosa is an intensely physical disorder, resulting in apparent changes to the body that can warn an individual is struggling, such as:. Behavioral red flags of bulimia are not as easily identifiable as the physical listed above; however, it is still possible to recognize behavioral changes that could indicate a problem, for example:. Yet often people live with bulimia for many years before it is detected or they seek help, which can make the cycle harder to break.
More often than not, people with bulimia can be treated as an outpatient — that is, they can work through their illness with the help of a psychologist while still living their day-to-day life, rather than being hospitalised.
Working with a psychologist can help people experiencing bulimia to develop coping strategies and tackle the root cause of their illness, such as low self-esteem and poor body image.
Eating Disorders Victoria has put together a step-by-step guide take if you are concerned that you may be experiencing bulimia. Remember that you have the best chance of success if you include people you trust on your journey. You are one of thousands of people to visit this website today seeking information and support. If you value the work of EDV, please consider joining our donor community by making a monthly or once-off donation.
Read more about treatments for bulimia. Bulimia can eventually lead to physical problems associated with not getting the right nutrients, vomiting a lot, or overusing laxatives. Bulimia is often a vicious cycle of binging and purging, triggered by things such as hunger, sadness or stress. Failing to keep to these then leads to periods of excessive eating and loss of control binge eating , after which you feel guilty or ashamed.
You then purge to get rid of the calories, leaving you feeling hungry again, and the cycle continues. This video explores how to spot the symptoms of bulimia nervosa, and how it can impact someone's life. Page last reviewed: 10 November Next review due: 10 November Overview - Bulimia. If left untreated, bulimia can severely impact your health. Talk to your primary care provider or a mental health professional about your bulimia symptoms and feelings. If you're reluctant to seek treatment, confide in someone about what you're going through, whether it's a friend or loved one, a teacher, a faith leader, or someone else you trust.
He or she can help you take the first steps to get successful bulimia treatment. If you think a loved one may have symptoms of bulimia, have an open and honest discussion about your concerns. You can't force someone to seek professional care, but you can offer encouragement and support. You can also help find a qualified doctor or mental health professional, make an appointment, and even offer to go along. Because most people with bulimia are usually normal weight or slightly overweight, it may not be apparent to others that something is wrong.
Red flags that family and friends may notice include:. The exact cause of bulimia is unknown. Many factors could play a role in the development of eating disorders, including genetics, biology, emotional health, societal expectations and other issues. Girls and women are more likely to have bulimia than boys and men are. Bulimia often begins in the late teens or early adulthood. Bulimia may cause numerous serious and even life-threatening complications.
Possible complications include:. Although there's no sure way to prevent bulimia, you can steer someone toward healthier behavior or professional treatment before the situation worsens.
Here's how you can help:. Mayo Clinic does not endorse companies or products.
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