Bulimia Nervosa

Bulimia nervosa is sometimes referred to simply as bulimia.  It is an eating disorder that involves episodes of bingeing on food and then purging by various means. By bingeing what is meant is eating a large amount of food in a short amount of time. The purging phase of the bulimia nervosa disorder that follows is done to try to undo their bingeing.  Purging behaviors may include one of more of the following:

• Compulsive exercise
• Diuretic abuse
• Enemas
• Ipecac abuse
• Laxative abuse
• Self-induced vomiting

Signs, Symptoms & Causes of Bulimia Nervosa

The causes of bulimia nervosa cannot be pinpointed to any one thing; however there are common factors that may play a role. These factors include:

• Biology:
  Genetics, hormones and brain chemicals may play a role as causes of bulimia nervosa.
  
  
• Culture: Men and women feeling pressured to have the perfect body and women in particular under constant pressure to be thin may be causes of bulimia nervosa.
  
  
• Family:
  Many people with bulimia have relatives who also have it and parents that may judge their children's bodies as well as their own may be more likely to have a child with bulimia.
  
  
• Life Changes or Stressful Events:
  Being teased about body size may factor into the causes of bulimia nervosa and more traumatic events such as being sexually abused or raped can also lead to bulimia nervosa.
  
  
• Psychology:
  Those who have problems expressing anger and other emotions and have low self-esteem, and/or problems with moods and trouble controlling impulsive behaviors are common factors in those who have bulimia nervosa.

If your friend or family member is showing signs of having an eating disorder such as bulimia nervosa, it may be impossible for you alone to help them.  Call Lakeview Health Systems to speak to a professional that can get you the help that is needed.  Call our toll free number at: 1-800-884-1727. We are here 24/7 to assist you and all calls are strictly confidential.