Bulimia, or bulimia nervosa, is an eating disorder whose sufferers binge and purge; they eat a very large amount of food in a short amount of time, and then take laxatives, induce vomiting, or over-exercise to get rid of it. This behavior is recurrent, and depression is often also present, according to the organization Something Fishy. Though individuals with bulimia often try and hide their behavior, signs and symptoms eventually become visible.
Physical Signs
Some physical signs that a person with bulimia will exhibit include calloused or bruised knuckles from repeated shoving against the teeth, bloodshot eyes, mood swings, swollen glands, frequent sore throats, broken blood vessels in the skin, muscle weakness, and low blood pressure. According to the Mayo Clinic, tooth and gum damage, bloating, dehydration, menstrual irregularities, and an irregular heartbeat are also physical signs of the disorder.
Emotional Symptoms
A person with bulimia may suffer from depression or anxiety, mood swings, or feel she cannot control her food-related behavior. A preoccupation with body shape and a distorted body image can also be signs of bulimia according to the Mayo Clinic. The individual may also be extremely critical of herself.
Behavioral Signs
Behaviors that individuals with bulimia might display include constant dieting; abusing laxatives, diuretics, or ipecac; visiting the bathroom after meals; hoarding food; exercising for long periods of time; or changes in sexual behavior. Avoidance of restaurants or social situations involving food might also occur, according to Mirror Mirror, a website dedicated to the memory of those who have lost the fight to an eating disorder.
Medical Signs
Individuals with eating disorders often lack necessary vitamins and minerals. Tests will often show deficiencies in a wide array of vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A, B, B12, C, D, E, K, folic acid, calcium, potassium, iron and sodium. Deficiencies may lead to unbalanced electrolytes, which can affect the kidneys, heart, nerves and blood sugar levels. Upon further medical examination, esophageal tears, kidney and liver damage, and pancreatitis may be found.
