Bulimia

Bulimia Nervosa is a serious, potentially life-threatening illness that is characterized by cycles of binge eating and weight-loss behaviors such as vomiting, misuse of laxatives or diuretics, excessive exercise and strict dieting. This vicious cycle of binging and purging takes a toll on the patient’s body as well as her mind.

Bulimia sometimes co-exists with substance abuse, depression, bipolar disorder, or other psychiatric conditions. Bulimic patients may engage in cutting, or other forms of self-injury. Some patients contemplate suicide.

Most bulimic patients are within five to ten pounds of normal weight, which may make their disease difficult to detect. The primary physical signs all relate to vomiting. They include discolored teeth, puffy cheeks, and calluses or scars on the knuckles or hands that have been caused by sticking fingers down the throat.

If you are worried about yourself or a loved one, please contact us for a free, confidential consultation. In most cases, we can admit Canadian patients to our residential program within 2 days of receiving their paperwork.

When To Seek Medical Help

Talk to a doctor if someone you love is:

• Alternating between overeating and fasting
• Consuming greater amounts of food without gaining weight
• Going to the bathroom immediately after meals
• Eating alone, particularly late at night
• Over-exercising
• Experiencing sudden weight fluctuation

Or if at home/school you discover:

• Food disappearing from the kitchen
• Hidden stashes of junk food or food that has been chewed and spit out
• The smell of vomit in the bathroom
• Laxatives, diuretics or enemas

For More Information

With the right resources, bulimia is a treatable condition. McLean Hospital’s multidisciplinary treatment team is available to support, educate and empower both patients and their families. For more information about the Klarman Eating Disorder Center, or to speak with an expert, please contact us.