BULIMIA NERVOSA
Bulimia is an illness defined by food binges, or recurrent episodes
of significant overeating, that are accompanied by a sense of loss of
control. The affected person then uses various methods, such as vomiting or laxative abuse, to prevent weight gain.
An estimated 1.1 percent to 4.2 percent
of females have bulimia nervosa in their lifetime. Symptoms
of bulimia nervosa include the following:
- Recurrent episodes of binge eating, characterized by eating
an excessive amount of food within a discrete period of
time and by a sense of lack of control over eating during
the episode
- Recurrent inappropriate compensatory behavior in order
to prevent weight gain, such as self-induced vomiting or
misuse of laxatives, diuretics, enemas, or other medications
(purging); fasting; or excessive exercise
- The binge eating and inappropriate compensatory behaviors
both occur, on average, at least twice a week for 3 months
- Self-evaluation is unduly influenced by body shape and
weight
Because purging or other compensatory behavior follows the
binge-eating episodes, people with bulimia usually weigh within
the normal range for their age and height. However, like individuals
with anorexia, they may fear gaining weight, desire to lose
weight, and feel intensely dissatisfied with their bodies. People
with bulimia often perform the behaviors in secrecy, feeling
disgusted and ashamed when they binge, yet relieved once they
purge.
