Symptoms and Manifestations of Bulimia Nervosa

Symptoms and Indications of Bulimia Nervosa

Bulimia is an eating disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. Characterized by feelings of loss of control during eating, followed by intense guilt and a desire to compensate, this condition can have severe and life-threatening complications.

The disorder is more common among individuals with related symptoms who have not yet been diagnosed. According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, 5th edition (DSM-5), there are two types of bulimia: purging bulimia and non-purging bulimia. Purging bulimia involves vomiting, misuse of diuretics, laxatives, or enemas after binge eating, while non-purging bulimia involves fasting or obsessive exercise instead of purging.

Emotional and behavioral symptoms of bulimia can include going to the bathroom right after eating, hiding food wrappers, seeming uncomfortable eating in front of others, hiding packages of laxatives or diuretics, stealing or hiding food, frequently dieting, excessively using mouthwash, mints, or gum, obsessively exercising, acting moody or sad, overly concerned with body weight and shape, making disparaging remarks about body weight and shape, having extreme shifts in mood, no longer wanting to hang out with friends or do activities they once enjoyed, and more.

Physical symptoms of bulimia can be just as alarming. Over time, bulimia can lead to severe complications such as irregular heartbeat, low pulse, low blood pressure, heart failure, nausea and vomiting, low blood sugar, stomach pain and bloating, constipation, inflamed or damaged esophagus, swollen jaws or cheeks, pancreatitis, bowel obstruction, perforation, or infections, gastroparesis, stomach rupture, anemia, kidney failure, seizures, difficulty falling or staying asleep, and bone loss (osteopenia or osteoporosis).

Bulimia can also lead to less obvious but still significant complications such as insulin resistance, which can lead to type 2 diabetes. Menstrual irregularities (missing or irregular periods) can also be a symptom of bulimia.

It is important to note that the latest surveys on the prevalence of bulimia nervosa are generally conducted by psychiatric and health research organizations. However, official and large-scale data on eating disorders frequently come from national health institutes or psychiatric research bodies. For example, recent data about hospital treatment for bulimia nervosa in Germany reference trends up to 2023, but no specific organization is mentioned in the provided information.

Despite the seriousness of these complications, help is available. If you or someone you know is struggling with bulimia, it is essential to seek professional help. With the right support, it is possible to overcome bulimia and live a healthy, happy life.