Bulimia

Do I Have Bulimia?

Bulimia is characterized by bingeing, or eating relatively large amounts of food in a short time. The binge is followed by a purge or a desired purge, which is an attempt to rid the body of the food. Binges, as commonly thought, do not only manifest in vomiting, rather purges can take place through laxatives, excessive exercise, et cetera. Binges are often diagnosed by the following criteria:

Awareness that binge eating is detrimental or abnormal;

Binge eating and purging at least twice weekly for three months;

Fear of not being able to cease food consumption voluntarily;

Depression (manic or otherwise);

Self-disparaging thoughts following bingeing activity;

Self image is often negative, with overly critical self impression;

Repeated attempts at weight loss through unhealthy methods (laxatives, excessive exercise, illicit drugs, dehydration, etc.).

Physical Symptoms

Bulimia can be quite difficult to stratify as standard physical symptoms. Any or all of the following may be present, although physical symptoms may never be readily visible: weight swings of 10-15lbs; secretive activity, particularly after meals and when others are expected not to enter the kitchen; puffy, swollen eyes; and for those who vomit, yellowing/browning teeth, especially on the posterior.

Emotional Symptoms

Bulimics often use bingeing as a means to feel sated in an emotional/psychological sense, yet this manifests in food consumption. Bulimics often describe their need to binge as the need to feel full, and the need to purge as the need to regain control over the body's appearance. Bulimia is more common in stressful situations like transitional events, or in hardship and grieving.

Psychological Symptoms

Psychologically, bulimics are seeking fulfillment of a need, and because they feel they cannot achieve this goal, they replace food with whatever is truly needed. Bulimics are often sensitive, caring individuals who lack a proper outlet for their emotional needs, or are overly burdened by the needs of others, sacrificing their own wellbeing.

Who It Effects

Bulimia was previously associated with adolescent girls, but this disease has ballooned to include larger ratios of women in their 40's and 50's as well. It can affect anyone, but its onset has been positively correlated with transitional events, like divorce, going off to university, and other instances where a decreased network of support is available.

Treatment

Treatment of bulimia can begin only after the afflicted individual has resolved to get better. Upon firm resolution for recovery, the victim must seek the services of a qualified counsellor, and use those services in regular conjunction with a medical doctor. It is also advised for family members to seek counselling as well to learn how to aid in the recovery process. There are myriad treatment options available - check the finding treatment section for treatment options near you.

* If medical attention is needed, immediately seek the care of medical professionals in your area.