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Eating Disorders

Bulimia Nervosa

Bulimia Nervosa is a very serious eating disorder that if not properly treated can be life-threatening. It is characterized by patterns of the binge eating of large quantities of food and then purging it by means of vomiting, laxatives or compulsive exercising. Since people suffering from bulimia are often of normal body weight, it might not be apparent that they're struggling with this disorder.

Some important warning signs that could signal bulimia include the following:

  • The disappearance of large quantities of food
  • Purging behaviors such as, frequent trips to the bathroom after meals, the smell of vomit or the presence of laxative and/or diet pill packaging
  • Preoccupation with their weight
  • Dieting or exercising obsessively
  • Swollen cheeks or jaw area
  • Broken blood vessels in the eyes
  • Chronic throat inflammation
  • Eroded teeth
  • Teeth marks on fingers

Bulimia can create serious medical complications, including gastric distress, constipation or diarrhea, due to the extreme use of laxatives. They also might have an increase in dental cavities because of the erosion to their tooth enamel.

Approximately 80% of those diagnosed with bulimia are female. Onset of the condition usually occurs in adolescence or early adulthood, though it is important to note that men and women in all age ranges, socio-economic status and ethnicities can have bulimia. Bulimia is a very secretive disease and those struggling with it will often go to great lengths to try to hide their disorder. Bulimia can often be a response to depression, anxiety or stress. The binge eating often gives them a sense of release and euphoria, but it then immediate turns into guilt and self-loathing.

Treatment for bulimia can include anything from hospital care to outpatient counseling, depending on the severity.

  • Medical Treatment- Initially, the medical professionals need to assess any serious medical conditions due to bulimia including dental concerns, gastrointestinal problems, kidney disorders or dehydration. If conditions are life-threatening, then inpatient care will be necessary. Doctors will assess whether medication is needed to treat depression or other mood disorders that are working in conjunction with the bulimia, since anti-depressants may speed up the recovery process. Medication levels must be monitored closely, since vomiting and laxative use can reduce its effectiveness.
  • Psychotherapy- Individuals with bulimia can find help with therapy, whether it is individual, family, group or a combination of the three. Counseling and behavior therapy focus on the issues of low self-esteem and distorted self-image that can be the basis for the bulimic behaviors occurring. Family therapy not only educates the family about the disorder and how to deal with it, but it can also focus on improving family dynamics. Group therapy provides individuals with support through confidential group sessions, which allows participants to relate to others who are going through similar issues.
  • Meditation- Meditation is an invaluable tool for helping restore balance and wholeness. Through the regular practice of meditation people come to realize that they are not their thoughts, but rather the thinker of their thoughts. They can begin to differentiate themselves from the voice of bulimia that keeps them trapped in an endless web of suffering.

The ultimate goal of treating bulimia is to help learn the skills necessary to live a healthy and productive life, both physically and emotionally. Medical intervention is sometimes needed but counseling, group therapy and meditation are all excellent resources that can aid in a successful recovery.

Resources

The National Eating Disorder Association
www.nationaleatingdisorders.org

The National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders
www.anad.org

Eating Disorders: Symptoms of Bulimia
PsychCentral.com
http://psychcentral.com/disorders/eating_disorders/eating_bulimia.htm

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