Bulimia Nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating, followed by compensatory behaviors such as purging, fasting, or excessive exercise. Symptoms of Bulimia Nervosa include physical symptoms such as weight fluctuations, changes in menstrual cycle, gastrointestinal problems, dental and oral problems, fatigue and weakness, and dehydration. Psychological symptoms include preoccupation with food and weight, low self-esteem and self-worth, perfectionism and self-criticism, anxiety and depression, trauma and emotional distress, and difficulty in social interactions. Bulimia nervosa is a serious mental health condition and if you suspect that you or someone you know might have this disorder, it is important to seek professional help.
Physical Symptoms
Physical symptoms are a common feature of Bulimia nervosa. These symptoms can vary in severity and may be the result of binge eating and compensatory behaviors such as purging, fasting, or excessive exercise.
Weight fluctuations: People with bulimia may have frequent changes in weight, as a result of binge eating and compensatory behaviors.
Changes in menstrual cycle: Bulimia nervosa can affect the menstrual cycle, leading to irregular periods or even amenorrhea (absence of menstrual periods).
Gastrointestinal problems: Purging behaviors such as self-induced vomiting can cause stomach acid to erode the teeth, cause throat irritation and soreness, and lead to other gastrointestinal problems like constipation, diarrhea, acid reflux, and stomach pain.
Dental and oral problems: The frequent purging associated with bulimia can cause erosion of the tooth enamel, cavities, and tooth sensitivity. Additionally, bulimia can cause changes in the salivary glands, leading to dry mouth, bad breath, and a swollen jaw.
Fatigue and weakness: The constant cycle of binge eating and purging can lead to malnutrition and electrolyte imbalances, causing fatigue and weakness.
Dehydration: Purging behavior such as self-induced vomiting or excessive use of laxatives can lead to dehydration and electrolyte imbalances, which can be dangerous if left untreated.
Psychological Symptoms
Psychological symptoms are a common feature of Bulimia Nervosa and can have a significant impact on an individual’s mental well-being.
Preoccupation with food and weight: People with bulimia may have an obsession with food and weight, often spending a lot of time thinking about their next meal, calorie counting, and their weight.
Low self-esteem and self-worth: Bulimia nervosa often co-occurs with low self-esteem, self-worth, and negative body image. They may feel ashamed and guilty about their eating disorder, and the constant cycle of binge eating and purging can exacerbate these feelings.
Perfectionism and self-criticism: Perfectionism is a common trait among people with bulimia, They may have high standards for themselves and may be highly critical of themselves. They may use food and weight control as a way to feel in control of their lives.
Anxiety and depression: Bulimia nervosa often co-occurs with anxiety and depression, and these conditions can exacerbate the symptoms of bulimia. People with bulimia may use food and weight control as a way to cope with these negative feelings.
Trauma and emotional distress: People with bulimia may have a history of trauma or abuse, which may contribute to the development of the disorder. They may use food as a way to cope with feelings of shame, guilt, or powerlessness.
Difficulty in social interactions: Bulimia nervosa can affect the way people interact with others, They may avoid social situations, feel self-conscious and anxious in social situations, and have difficulty maintaining relationships.
