Bulimia, or bulimia nervosa, is a potentially life-threatening eating disorder characterized by cycles of binging and purging. Sufferers of the disease eat---often exorbitant amounts---then attempt to compensate for ingested food by vomiting, abusing laxatives or through over-exercise. People with bulimia may appear underweight, normal weight or overweight and frequently hide their behaviors. If you or a loved one exhibits signs of bulimia, seek prompt guidance from a qualified professional.
Extreme Weight Loss Measures
People with bulimia commonly obsess over their weight and their desire to reduce it. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, common signs of bulimia include diet pill or laxative abuse, resorting to the restroom promptly after eating so that she can vomit and over-exercising, regardless of weather conditions, exhaustion or other deterring factors. These behaviors can lead to serious complications such as severe dehydration, electrolyte imbalance and chronic digestive problems. In worst cases, electrolyte imbalances negatively impact the heart and lead to heart attack, heart failure or death. People with bulimia may also weigh themselves frequently or dress in ways that conceal their physical appearance.
Physical Signs
Frequent purging, over-exercise and resultant dehydration can cause changes in the physical appearance of people with bulimia. According to the National Eating Disorders Association, people with bulimia may develop unusual swelling of the face and jaw, calluses on the backs of hands or fingers from self-induced vomiting, and discolored or stained teeth. If you know or suspect that your loved one has bulimia, discuss his symptoms with a doctor, as well as a dentist. In many cases, dentists are the first to observe symptoms of bulimia, since changes in tooth and mouth health are common primary signs. Common signs of dehydration include tiredness, dry mouth, headache and sunken eyes. If physical symptoms include changes in heart rate, fever or extreme thirst, seek immediate medical attention as such symptoms may indicate a life-threatening situation.
Emotional Signs
Emotional symptoms such as depression and anxiety commonly affect those with bulimia. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, childhood abuse, depression, low self-esteem, poor body image and difficulty expressing negative feelings such as anger often contribute to bulimia. Symptoms of anxiety may heighten at or near meal times or other situations involving food. Depression often follows binging episodes as a person experiences shame and guilt for her behaviors. Emotional problems often worsen as the eating disorder progresses, creating a negative and potentially dangerous pathway. For best results, seek guidance as soon as you observe potential symptoms. Although bulimia is complex, it is also treatable.
