Bulimia, also known as bulimia nervosa, is a type of eating disorder in which a person becomes focused on her weight and body shape, the Mayo Clinic says. This can come from an inherited gene that makes you susceptible to it. Some people are psychologically predisposed to it, especially if they have low self-esteem and are perfectionists. Society can pressure people to be thin in order to be successful.
Binge Eating and Purging
MedlinePlus says binge eating refers to a behavior in which you eat excessive amounts of high-calorie foods in a given period. For example, you may eat an entire cake and box of pizza within a span of an hour. Physical signs of binge eating include eating in secret. Purging, or vomiting, follows the binge eating. MedlinePlus says this cycle can lead to guilt and depression. Manifestations of depression include sad feelings, hopelessness, trouble sleeping and physical isolation.
Typically, your doctor may describe antidepressants and involve you in individual, group and family therapy to get to the root of your binge eating and purging habits.
Amenorrhea
Bulimia can also play a role in disrupting menstrual cycles. Specifically, bulimics develop secondary amenorrhea, a condition in which you suddenly stop menstruating, the Mayo Clinic says. Specific symptoms of secondary amenorrhea include having no period for three to six months or longer. The Mayo Clinic indicates it's important to visit your doctor when you miss three or more consecutive periods, especially when you were previously menstruating. Treating bulimia reduces the incidence of amenorrhea.
Other Characterisitics
The Mayo Clinic says bulimia's other characteristics include excessive exercising, fasting and having damaged teeth and gums. Damaged teeth and gums are the result of purging. When you purge, the acid contents of your stomach back up and erode your tooth enamel. Bulimia can also cause dehydration, dry skin, fatigue and an irregular heartbeat. You can also become depressed, anxious and eat until you feel better.
