Symptoms and Treatments for Bulimia Nervosa

Statistics show that eating disorder prevalence has increased in the last two years. Around 1.5% of females and 0.5% of males struggle with bulimic episodes. It’s also worth noting that many cases go unreported due to insufficient awareness, mental health assistance, and support accessibility.

Let’s explore this eating disorder in detail and learn about its common symptoms and available treatments.

What is Bulimia Nervosa?

Also referred to as binge eating, purging, or overeating, bulimia nervosa is a complex and complicated mental health issue. The inability to control your eating patterns and frequently experiencing agitating hunger episodes are the most common signs of bulimia nervosa. Bulimia occurrences are often followed by guilt and shame in patients, leading to low self-esteem and catastrophic thoughts. 

How Do You Identify Bulimia Nervosa?

Bulimia nervosa is often confused with casual overeating episodes. In fact, overeating is one of the major signs of bulimia. According to mental health specialists, this mental health illness gradually develops into a more critical condition with symptoms such as;

Ø A complete lack of control over one’s eating habits

Ø Self-induced vomiting after consuming large portions of food

Ø Overuse of laxatives, self-medicated diuretics, and other harmful drugs

Ø Self-induced fasting due to concerns regarding one’s body shape, size, and weight

Ø Severe exercising and workout episodes to lose weight gain caused by binge eating

How Does Bulimia Nervosa Affect One’s Mental Health?

Bulimia nervosa can impact a patient’s view of their body image. Bulimic individuals often consider themselves unattractive, overweight, unworthy, and unlovable. Their overthinking eventually results in more frequent overeating episodes. They also start binge eating secretly, trying to eliminate the evidence and hiding their condition.

 As a result, bulimia leads to physical illnesses such as excessive dehydration, overeating-induced weight gain, sharp stomach pains, and menstrual irregularities in female patients.

Is Bulimia Nervosa Treatable?

Fortunately, yes. Effective and emerging psychotherapy treatments like CBT and DBT, medications, and nutritional counseling can be very helpful for bulimic patients. However, it’s important to avoid self-medication and consult a professional for the best results.

Aligned Healthcare is a leading mental healthcare clinic offering easy and quick accessibility to qualified mental health specialists in Cook County, Dupage County, Westchester, and surrounding areas. Call them today to book an in-person or an online appointment to discuss your or a loved one’s mental health concerns.