Health Encyclopedia

Bulimia

Definition

Bulimia is an illness defined by food binges or recurrent episodes of significant overeating 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.

Many, but not all, people with bulimia may also have anorexia nervosa, another eating disorder.

Alternative Names

Bulimia nervosa; Binge-purge behavior; Eating disorder - bulimia

Causes, incidence, and risk factors

In bulimia, eating binges may occur as often as several times daily for many months. These binges cause a sense of self-disgust, which leads to compensatory behaviors like self-induced vomiting or excessive exercise. A person with bulimia may also abuse laxatives, diuretics, or enemas in order to prevent weight gain.

Such behaviors can be quite dangerous and may lead to serious medical complications over time. For example, the stomach acid which is introduced into the esophagus (the tube from the mouth to the stomach) during frequent vomiting can permanently damage this area.

Many more women than men have bulimia, and the disorder is most common in adolescent girls. The affected person is usually aware that her eating pattern is abnormal and may experience fear or guilt associated with the binge-purge episodes. Although the behavior is usually secretive, clues to this disorder include overactivity, peculiar eating habits or rituals, and frequent weighing.

Body weight is usually normal, although the person may perceive themselves as overweight. If bulimia is accompanied by anorexia, body weight may be extremely low.

The exact cause of bulimia is unknown, but genetic, constitutional, psychological, trauma, family, society, or cultural factors may play a role. Any given case is likely due to more than one factor.

Symptoms

Binge eating
Self-induced vomiting
Inappropriate use of diuretics or laxatives
Overachieving behavior

Signs and tests

A dental exam may show dental cavities or gum infections (such as gingivitis). The enamel of the teeth may be eroded or pitted because of excessive exposure to acid in vomitus.

A chem-20 may show an electrolyte imbalance (such as hypokalemia) or dehydration.

Treatment

Treatment focuses on breaking the binge-purge cycles. Outpatient treatment may include behavior modification techniques as well as individual, group, or family counseling.

Antidepressant drugs may also be used in cases that involve depression.

Support Groups

Self-help groups like Overeaters Anonymous may help some people with bulimia. The American Anorexia/Bulimia Association is a source of information about this disorder.

See: Eating disorders - support group

Expectations (prognosis)

Bulimia is a chronic illness and many people continue to have some symptoms despite treatment. People with fewer medical complications of bulimia, and who are willing and able to engage in therapy, tend to have a better chance of recovery.

Complications

Pancreatitis
Dental cavities
Inflammation of the throat
Electrolyte abnormalities
Dehydration
Constipation
Hemorrhoids
Esophageal tears

Calling your health care provider

Call for an appointment with your health care provider if you (or your child) have symptoms of an eating disorder.

Prevention

Less social and cultural emphasis on physical perfection may eventually help reduce the frequency of this disorder.

References

American Psychiatric Association. Treatment of patients with eating disorders, 3rd ed. American Psychiatric Association. Am J Psychiatry. 2006 Jul;163(7 Suppl):4-54.

Berkman ND, Lohr KN, Bulik CM. Outcomes of eating disorders: a systematic review of the literature. Int J Eat Disord. 2007 May;40(4):293-309.

Review Date:5/19/2008
Reviewed By:Christos Ballas, M.D., Attending Psychiatrist, Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.

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