What is bulimia nervosa?

It is a serious eating disorder that can have fatal consequences since it establishes eating patterns where the patient binges excessive amounts of food and then induces vomit to get rid of the caloric intake of the food and the guilt for a potential weight gain.

Bulimic people are obsessed with their physical appearance, weight, and body composition, so, in addition to inducing vomit, they use various methods to get rid of the large amounts of food they consume, such as uncontrolled intake of laxatives, diuretics, weight loss drugs, and continuous enemas.

These patients’ self-perception is a devalued image with physical defects and overweight that need to be eradicated. Hence, they seek to free themselves from the nutritional contributions of the foods they eat uncontrollably. Bulimia has a higher incidence in adolescents and young women, although it can also occur in other age ranges and in men.

Although the origin of this condition has not been identified, it is known that various factors can cause it and other eating disorders, such as genetic, biological, emotional, psychological, social, and educational issues.

• Recurrent binge eating in which there is an excessive intake of food.
• Inducing vomit, taking laxatives or diuretics immediately after the binge.
• Having prolonged fasting episodes after binge eating.
• Use of drugs or supplements to reduce body weight.
• Inability to control or stop compulsive food consumption.
• Excessive concern for body weight and appearance.
• Constant fear of gaining weight.

If you experience any of these symptoms, see a specialist immediately, because if it is not diagnosed and treated promptly, bulimia can lead to serious complications that can be fatal, including:

• Anxiety.
• Depression.
• Personality disorders.
• Alcoholism.
• Drug addiction.
• Suicidal thoughts.
• Low self-esteem.
• Socializing problems.
• Dehydration.
• Kidney failure.
• Arrhythmia.
• Heart failure.
• Dental cavities.
• Periodontal disease.
• Menstrual disorders.
• Digestive system problems.

Once the specialist analyzes your symptoms and clinical history, he or she will perform a physical examination and will question you about your eating habits.

They will also perform a psychological exam, request blood and urine tests, an electrocardiogram, and X-rays, although if they suspect other damage or effects on your body, they will request other specialized tests to determine them.

The most effective treatment against bulimia is a combination of psychological therapy, antidepressant drugs, and nutritional education, to modify your eating habits, establishing a healthy diet with the support of your relatives.

It should be noted that in severe cases, when the symptoms are serious and complications have already occurred, you will need to be hospitalized to receive the necessary professional care.

At the Neurological Center, a select group of highly trained and certified doctors in the various neurological specialties are ready to assist you with the quality and warmth that characterizes us. Nervous system specialties

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