
[Anorexia Nervosa][Bulimia
Nervosa][Compulsive Overeating][Getting
Help]
Bulimia Nervosa
[Definition][Signs/Symptoms]Definition:
Bulimia is a cycle of binge eating followed by purging to try and rid the body of all
unwanted calories. A binge is different for all people. A binge, for one person, could be
500-5000 calories. A binge for another person could be a piece of a cookie. Purging
methods usually involve vomiting and laxative abuse. However, excessive exercise, fasting,
and diet pills are also was of purging.
Bulimics are usually people that don't feel secure about their own self worth. Usually,
they strive for the approval of others. Food becomes their only source of comfort. Unlike
anorexics, bulimics usually realize they have a problem and are more likely to seek help.
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Signs/Symptoms:
>Fatigue and lack of energy
>Amenorrhea(loss of menstruation) and irregular menstruation
>Dizziness
>Headaches
>Dehydration
>Constipation and diarrhea
>Shortness of breath
>Irregular heartbeats
>Depression
>Tears of esophagus
>Hair loss
>Stomach pain and bloating
>Erosion of teeth enamel
>Chronic sore throat
>Kidney and liver damage
>Parotid gland enlargement
>Electrolyte imbalances
>Cathartic colon (caused from laxative abuse)
>Edema (swelling of hands and feet)
>Low blood pressure
>Chest pains
>Development of peptic ulcers and pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas)
>Gastric dilation and rupture
>Abrasions on back of hands and knuckles
>Anemias
>Cardiac arrest and death
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