noun
Bulimia (boo-LEE-me-uh) nervosa, commonly called bulimia, is a serious, potentially life-threatening eating disorder. People with bulimia binge eat. This means people feel like they've lost control over their eating. They eat large amounts of food in one sitting. This often occurs in secret, and they often feel very guilty and shameful. Then they try to get rid of the food and extra calories in an unhealthy way, such as vomiting or misusing laxatives. This is called purging.
If you have bulimia, you probably focus on your weight and ...
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Bulimia symptoms may include:
The exact cause of bulimia is not known. Genes may play a role in the development of bulimia and other eating disorders. Emotional health and family history may play a role. Also, pressures from society to be thin may play a role.
When you have bulimia, you may need one or more types of treatment. Treatment includes proven therapies and medicines that may help you get better.
Treatment generally involves a team approach that includes you, your family, your primary healthcare professional, a mental health professional and sometimes a dietitian who knows how to treat eating problems.
Here's a look at bulimia treatment options.
Although there's no sure way to prevent bulimia, you can steer someone toward healthier behavior or professional treatment before it gets worse. Here's how you can help:
For informational purposes only and not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
© Mayo Clinic
| Binge-eating disorder |
| Anorexia nervosa |
| Eating disorders |
| Rumination syndrome |
