Sorry it took me a while to get back to you. I did a research paper on Bulimia a few weeks ago. Here are just some of the facts concerning this disorder.
Bulimia is a psychological eating disorder. It is when a person has episodes of binge-eating followed by unhealthy methods of weight control.These methods of weight control include vomiting, fasting, enemas, excessive use of laxatives and diuretics, or compulsive exercising. Excessive shape and weight concerns are also characteristics of bulimia.It is usually a response to depression, stress, or self esteem issues. During the binge episode, the individual experiences a loss of control.
Some of the bad things that happen to a person's body who does this are: erosion of tooth enamel (because of repeated exposure to acidic gastric juices),Dental cavities, sensitivity to hot or cold food,Swelling and soreness in the salivary glands (from tons of vomiting),Stomach Ulcers,Ruptures of the stomach and esophagus,abnormal buildup of fluid in the intestines (bloating/constipation also),electrolyte imbalance,dehydration,Irregular heartbeat and in severe cases heart attack(first signs of this are swelling near/on the heart),a greater risk for suicidal behavior,and loss of sex drive......
Some factors that influence the development of Bulimia are:
-Genetics.... There are studies being done to look at many genes, hormones, and chemicals in the brain that may have an effect on the development of, and recovery from, bulimia.
-Culture...... Some cultures in the U.S. have an ideal of extreme thinness. Women may define themselves on how beautiful they are.
-Personal feelings...... Someone with bulimia may feel badly about themselves, feel helpless, and hate the way they look.
-Stressful events or life changes...... Things like starting a new school or job, being teased, or traumatic events like rape can lead to the onset of bulimia.
-Families..... The attitude of parents about appearance and diet affects their kids. Also, a person is more likely to develop bulimia if a mother or sister has it.
These are some of the horrible things associated with this disorder. I just want you to know that you are not alone and if you ever want to talk about this Im here for you.
You can find out more about bulimia by contacting the National Women's Health Information Center (NWHIC) at 800-994-WOMAN or the following organizations.
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), NIH, HHS
Phone: (866) 615-6464
Internet Address:
http://www.nimh.nih.gov
National Mental Health Information Center, SAMHSA, HHS
Phone: (800) 789-2647
Internet Address:
http://www.mentalhealth.org
Academy for Eating Disorders (AED)
Phone: (703) 556-9222
Internet Address:
http://www.aedweb.org
Eating Disorder Referral and Information Center
Phone: (858) 792-7463
Internet Address:
http://www.edreferral.com
Harvard Eating Disorders Center (HEDC)
Phone: (617) 236-7766
Internet Address:
http://www.hedc.org
National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA)
Phone: (800) 931-2237
Internet Address:
http://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org
This FAQ was reviewed by Barbara E. Wolfe, PhD, RN, CS, FAAN, Assistant Professor of Psychiatry, Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center and Harvard Medical School.