Bulimia is
binge-eating followed by self-induced vomiting or the use of
laxatives.
Physiological
Person may be under-, over-, or normal weight
Swollen glands, puffiness in the cheeks, or broken vessels under the eyes
Sore throat
Fatigue and muscle ache
Unexplained tooth decay
Frequent weight fluctuations
Electrolyte imbalance which can lead to irregular heartbeat, and in some cases,
heart attack.
Behavioral
Secretive eating (missing food)
Avoidance of restaurants, planned meals or social events if food is present
Self-disgust when too much has been eaten
Bathroom visits after meals
The use of diet pills
Rigid and harsh
exercise regimes
Fear of being fat, regardless of weight
Bingeing that may alternate with fasting
Preoccupation / constant talk about food or weight
Vomiting and laxative use
Shoplifting (sometimes food or laxatives)
Attitude Shifts
Mood shifts including
depression, sadness, guilt, and self-hate
Severe self-criticism
The need for approval
Self-worth determined by weight
Feeling out of control
-- From Surviving an Eating Disorder. Siegel. M. et al (1988). Harper and Row and from American Anorexia Bulimia Association, Facts on Eating Disorders.
Bulimia can be hidden from others, since bulimics appear to be within a normal weight range. The binge/purge episodes may be a few times a week or several times a day. Physical complications include dental problems, swelling of the
parotid glands,
digestive problems, and electrolyte imbalance.
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