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Bulimia Nervosa Treatment
An estimated 1.1 percent to 4.2 percent of females have bulimia nervosa
in their lifetime. Symptoms of bulimia nervosa include:
- Recurrent episodes of binge eating, characterized
by eating an excessive amount of food within a discrete
period of time and by a sense of lack of control
over eating during the episode
- Recurrent inappropriate compensatory behavior in
order to prevent weight gain, such as self-induced
vomiting or misuse of laxatives, diuretics, enemas,
or other medications (purging); fasting; or excessive
exercise
- The binge eating and inappropriate compensatory
behaviors both occur, on average, at least twice
a week for 3 months
- Self-evaluation is unduly influenced by body shape
and weight
Because purging or other compensatory behavior follows the binge-eating
episodes, people with bulimia usually weigh within the normal range for
their age and height. However, like individuals with anorexia, they may
fear gaining weight, desire to lose weight, and feel intensely dissatisfied
with their bodies. People with bulimia often perform the behaviors in
secrecy, feeling disgusted and ashamed when they binge, yet relieved
once they purge. |
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