Bulimia nervosa is a condition in which the person has problems in accepting normal weight, but also where the problem is one of binge eating followed by vomiting and laxative or other medication abuse. Unlike patients with anorexia nervosa, they may manage to keep a normal body weight but at the cost of a great deal of emotional and physical suffering.
Bulimia is often accompanied by a chaotic lifestyle, not only in terms of eating but also in terms of other aspects of their life. Suffers from bulimia nervosa may be older than sufferers from anorexia nervosa. Many suffer the symptoms of both conditions, but it is thought that bulimia is three times more common.
How would I know if I or a relative or friend had bulimia?
The person with bulimia is more likely to be of normal or excessive weight. Relatives may notice that she disappears to the bathroom after meals and there may be evidence of vomiting or laxative usage. Sufferers from bulimia often feel ashamed or guilty, and may have particular difficulty talking to others about themselves or seeking help.
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