Bulimia Nervosa is a more common disorder than anorexia nervosa in general. In a certain period of time (such as 1-2 hours), they binge eat much more food than most people can eat under similar conditions. During this time, they feel that their eating control is lost. They may resort to ways such as making themselves vomit with their finger, enemas, using diuretics, and they engage in compensatory behaviors such as not eating at all or exercising excessively.
Usually onset is in late adolescence. These people are normal or slightly overweight. Sometimes they may have a history of obesity. Unlike patients with anorexia, they are more extroverted. Alcohol dependence, depression, anxiety disorders, and impulsive behaviors are common.
There may be an underlying personality disorder. Patients with bulimia are more open to getting help.
In long-term cases, fluid imbalances in the body due to drug use, damage and tearing in the esophagus and stomach due to vomiting, enlargement of salivary glands, dental problems can be seen.
Treatment is by taking the person to psychotherapy and often family therapy may be required. In severe cases, drug therapy may also be used.
