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Bulimia nervosa
Bulimia nervosa is a serious, potentially life-threatening disorder marked by repeated bingeing (significant overeating) followed by purging (self-induced vomiting, use of laxatives or diuretics or obsessive exercise) to prevent weight gain. People with bulimia feel out of control with their eating behavior.
People who have bulimia may have certain physical signs. They also may show signs emotionally or in the way they think and act.
Appearance-
Weight changes caused by bingeing and fasting (though weight may be normal)
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Swollen glands along the jaw and cheeks and puffiness around the face
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Burst blood vessels in eyes
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Dry skin and dry, brittle hair
Other physical signs-
Tooth decay and gum disease
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Abdominal pain and constipation
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Headaches and fatigue
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Irregular menstrual cycle
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Dehydration and loss of potassium and sodium, which can lead to irregular heart rhythms and cardiac arrest
Eating habits-
Fasting
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Eating erratically by overeating, under-eating or eating fast
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Vomiting or abusing laxatives, diuretics, diet pills or ipecac, a drug that induces vomiting
Behavior-
Excessive exercising
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Drug and alcohol abuse
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Hoarding food
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Eating in secret
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Shoplifting or petty stealing for money to buy food
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Being promiscuous (having casual sex) as a mask for the desire to be accepted
Thoughts and emotions-
Fear of being unable to stop eating
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Constant preoccupation with food control
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Perfectionism — high performance and achievement expectations
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Preoccupation with appearance
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Unable to identify and express feelings
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Constant feeling of being out of control
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Low self-esteem and depression
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Appears normal and “together”
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Usually wants help desperately, but won’t ask
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Suicidal thoughts
If you are concerned about someone who has several of these signs, suggest he or she schedule an appointment with a primary care doctor.
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