Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder that is characterized by binge eating and purging, all in an effort to avoid gaining weight. It can affect you whether you're a man or a woman, and can appear at any age, although it is much more common in younger women. Usually the purging takes the form of self-induced vomiting, using a laxative, enema or diuretic, or even taking part in excessive exercise as a means of dealing with a concern for body weight. The struggle with bulimia comes from your battle between wanting to lose weight or stay thin, and the often overwhelming desire to binge eat.
Some people may alternate between bulimia and anorexia nervosa, or even another eating disorder. Bulimia is often accompanied by long periods of fasting, and sadly this can lead to serious deficits of essential nutrients, such as potassium, which can lead to problems with nerve conduction. Depression is also often linked with bulimia, which can lead to a high risk of suicide.
Here are some common physical effects of bulimia:
- weight gain
- abdominal pain
- swelling of your hands or feet
- chronic sore throat
- broken blood vessels in your eyes
- weakness or dizziness
- tooth decay or cankers
- acid reflux
- ulcerated stomach lining
- amenorrhea
- chronic constipation
Chronic use of laxatives, ipecac, and other means of purging can be dangerous, and even deadly. If you think that you may be bulimic, contact help immediately. Your life is worth more to you than you might think right now.
If diagnosed with bulimia, your doctor will likely recommend antidepressants, and will likely suggest counselling such as psychotherapy. Other psychological disorders are often present, so more long-term assistance may be required.
Other than psychotherapy, natural health care can play a large role in helping you treat bulimia. Acupuncture is excellent for getting you back on track to balanced hormonal levels, and nutritional counselling can help ensure that you're getting the right diet to get you, and keep you healthy.
Contact us for a FREE consultation on how natural therapy can help you prevent or manage your symptoms of bulimia nervosa.
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