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Is It Bad to Become Bulimic?

An eating disorder doesn't discriminate. It doesn't strike only women and it's not limited to the young. No matter your age, gender or race, bulimia nervosa is a serious condition that, if left untreated, can lead to dehydration, heart failure, tooth decay and death.

  1. Background Facts

    • Of the 24 million people with an eating disorder, approximately 10 to 15 percent are estimated to be male, according to the National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders, or ANAD for short. Those with bulimia typically eat a large amount of high-calorie foods, often doing so several times a day. An average binge can contain between 3,000 and 5,000 calories an hour, says HelpGuide.org. The binges are followed by purging, which could include forced vomiting, excessive exercise or use of laxatives, enemas or diuretics, to prevent weight gain.

    Signs and Symptoms

    • Bulimia is marked by a lack of control concerning food and eating. Food may be consumed to the point of physical discomfort and pain. Those with bulimia are secretive about eating. Bulimics head to the bathroom after meals, where they go to throw up the food they just consumed. They might also smell like vomit or partake in strenuous exercise after eating. Physical signs include puffy cheeks, discolored teeth and calluses or scars on the hands, all due to self-induced vomiting. However, those with bulimia typically are not underweight, though their weight might fluctuate. Losing weight while purging usually indicates a type of anorexia, according to HelpGuide.org.

    Effects

    • Bulimia nervosa might not lead to weight loss, but it can lead to a number of life-threatening complications. According to MayoClinic.com, these complications include heart problems, severe tooth decay and gum disease, digestive problems, anxiety, depression and dehydration, which can lead to additional medical issues such as kidney failure. The mortality rate for those suffering from bulimia is approximately 3.9 percent, according to ANAD.

    Treatment

    • Approximately 1 in 10 people who suffer from an eating disorder actually receive treatment, says ANAD. Doctors who suspect bulimia will typically complete a physical exam that includes blood and urine tests as well an X-ray to look for broken bones or an electrocardiogram to check for heart irregularities. They will also perform or refer a full psychological evaluation, says MayoClinic.com. Severe cases might require hospitalization, though most cases are treated outside the hospital or in special treatment facilities. Typical treatments include a healthy diet plan to establish normal eating habits and boost nutrition, as well as psychotherapy.

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