What is Bulimia Nervosa?
Bulimia Nervosa (commonly known as bulimia) is an eating disorder which is usually characterised by a binge/purge cycle. It is a serious illness which can severely damage one’s physical condition and consequently result in long-term health complications.
First4Rehab offer bulimia treatment to help you overcome your illness. For more information on our bulimia treatment please contact us today.
Unlike anorexia, most people suffering with bulimia fall within their normal weight and height range; however, bulimics have an intense fear of gaining weight and are generally unhappy with their overall appearance.
Although bulimia primarily affects women, men are also susceptible to the illness and this is often characterised by an obsession with becoming more muscular (bulking-up), or a need to lose weight; however, men are less likely to be diagnosed with an eating disorder as it is stereotypically seen as an illness mainly affecting women. |
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What Causes Bulimia Nervosa?
There is no single known cause as to what causes bulimia, but culture, everyday stress, traumatic events and a genetic addictive link can all contribute towards the onset of the illness.
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Many cultures, particularly in the west, place huge emphasis on the ideal body image being someone who is extremely thin. Women in particular are under huge pressure to aspire to this image, although for most, it is an unrealistic goal. Glossy magazines constantly parade dangerously thin models, with the latest craze being that of the ‘Size 0’. This constant pressure often results in the individual taking drastic measures, thus resulting in the development of an eating disorder. |
Common Signs of Bulimia Nervosa
It is often difficult to determine whether or not someone is suffering with bulimia due to the fact that their body weight often remains around their normal healthy range. Bulimics are, however, extremely secretive in their behaviour as the binge/purge cycle is often accompanied by feelings of guilt or shame.
Most individuals suffering with bulimia display emotional, physical and behavioural signs and symptoms. These can include:
- Frequent trips to the bathroom, particularly after eating.
- Constantly weighing one’s self.
- The use of laxatives or diet pills.
- Obsessive behaviour around exercising.
- Rough skin on the knuckles due to continual vomiting.
- Broken blood vessels in the eyes.
- Bad breath and poor dental enamel.
What are the Short-term Effects of Bulimia Nervosa?
Short-term effects of bulimia can include some or all of the following:
- Irregular or absent periods.
- Constipation and/or diarrhoea.
- Abdominal cramps.
- Anaemia.
- Swelling and soreness in the face.
- Tiredness.
What are the Long-term Effects of Bulimia Nervosa?
Long-term effects of bulimia can include some or all of the following:
- Decaying teeth due to the result of overexposure to stomach acids.
- Gastro-esophageal reflux disorder.
- Depression.
- Low blood pressure.
- Stomach ulcers.
- Heart failure.
Bulimia Treatment
Individuals suffering with bulimia usually have co-existing psychological disorders such as depression, low self-esteem or self-worth and anxiety. Many also suffer with drug and/or alcohol abuse.
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Recommended bulimia treatment is usually in the form of group psychotherapy, one-to-one counselling sessions and nutritional counselling, in order to promote and maintain a healthy eating plan and lifestyle. Cognitive Behavioural Therapy has also proven to be extremely effective in the treatment of eating disorders.
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For further information regarding bulimea treatment, please feel free to contact one of our First4Rehab advisors, either by phone or email. Or if you prefer, drop us a text on the mobile number listed below.
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