BULIMIA NERVOSA: CAUSES, SYMPTOMS, AND TREATMENTS

Bulimia nervosa, commonly called bulimia, is a serious, potentially life-threatening eating disorder. People with bulimia may secretly binge eat large amounts of food with a loss of control over the eating and then purge, trying to get rid of the extra calories in an unhealthy way.

It is unclear what specifically causes bulimia. Eating disorders may arise due to a variety of reasons, including genetics, biology, emotional well-being, societal expectations, and other variables.

Bulimia signs and symptoms may include- Being preoccupied with body shape and weight, Living in fear of gaining weight, Repeated episodes of eating abnormally large amounts of food in one sitting, Feeling a loss of control during bingeing, Forcing yourself to vomit or exercising too much to keep from gaining weight after bingeing, Using laxatives, diuretics or enemas after eating, Fasting, restricting calories or avoiding certain foods between binges, Using dietary supplements or herbal products excessively for weight loss

Girls and women are more likely to have bulimia than boys and men. Bulimia often begins in late teens or early adulthood. Factors that increase the risk of bulimia may include- Biology, Psychological and emotional issues, and Dieting.

Bulimia may cause numerous serious and sometimes even life-threatening complications such as Negative self-esteem and problems with relationships and social functioning, Dehydration, Heart problems, Severe tooth decay, Absent or irregular periods in females, Digestive problems, Anxiety, depression, personality disorders or bipolar disorder, Misuse of alcohol or drugs, Self-injury, suicidal thoughts or suicide

Bulimia may need several types of treatment, although combining psychotherapy with antidepressants may be the most effective for overcoming the disorder. Bulimia treatment options include- Psychotherapy, Medications, Nutrition Education, and Hospitalization.