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1. A decline in oral healthBulimia nervosa is characterized by binging episodes followed by self-induced purging. The most common form of purging is vomiting which involves not only the upchuck of unwanted calories in the form of partially digested food but also stomach acid that can have harmful effects on the esophagus and oral cavity including teeth and gums. The majority of individuals with bulimia nervosa will show signs and symptoms of tooth decay and cavities over time. Bringing acidic contents from your stomach into your mouth through self-induced vomiting can cause erosion of the enamel surface of your teeth. This damage usually appears primarily on the inside and biting surfaces of the teeth, and over time as the enamel is eroded by repeated exposure to gastric acid. For example, teeth may lose their shine, break, turn yellow, wear down, and chip. Stomach acid also potentiates the risk for cavities, and when combined with a high intake of sugary food, commonly seen in those who engage in binging, the risk for dental caries increases at a higher rate. 2. Consuming huge portions of foodIndividuals with bulimia consume larger portions of food than what is considered normal over short periods. This behavior is often done in secrecy as many individuals cycle through feelings of loss of control followed by guilt and shame, which eventually results in compensatory behaviors, aimed at “undoing” calories consumed. 3. Unusual behaviors around mealsConsistently disappearing following a meal, especially to the bathroom, can be a sign indicative of bulimia. The same can be said for finding open wrappers or stashes of food in unusual places; for instance, opened packs of candy bars underneath one’s bed or in their closet. Excessive fluid intake after eating, especially water or diet soda, can be a precursor to certain purging behaviors. Regularly eating alone in private, avoiding social gatherings around food or showering immediately following meals are also possible causes for concern. 4. Excoriations and scars on the back of the knuckles and hands (Russell’s Sign)Individuals who engage in self-induced vomiting as a compensatory behavior will often have excoriations on the back of the knuckles. Repeated contact of the fingers with teeth during self-induced vomiting episodes can lead to characteristic abrasions, small lacerations, and calluses on the back of the hand overlying the knuckles; formally known as Russell’s Sign. 5. Treatment for bulimia nervosaSimilar to anorexia nervosa and other eating disorders, bulimia nervosa is best treated by a professional eating disorder treatment center. Depending on the severity of the illness, levels of care range from inpatient treatment and residential treatment to partial hospitalization, intensive outpatient therapy, and outpatient treatment. A treatment plan is initiated immediately upon treatment admission, and this plan includes the components of the treatment team, psychotherapy approaches, nutritional and dietary counseling, and discharge and aftercare planning.
In the U.S., about 20 million women and 10 million men have eating disorders, so there’s a good chance someone you know is among them. They range from the more commonly known anorexia nervosa and bulimia to the lesser known binge-eating and restrictive food intake disorder. People who develop them often experience anxiety, low self-esteem and a level of perfectionism that makes them very hard on themselves.
Body dissatisfaction, especially concern about weight, is the strongest predictor of eating disorders. As the person attempts to achieve the perfect weight or shape—which is actually an effort to cope with intense emotions and stress—their relationships can become difficult. Some people show subtle, early signs of eating disorders. These may include:
If someone you care about has changed their relationship with food, is skipping meals or making excuses for not eating, adopts an overly restrictive diet and/or exercise plan, or focuses obsessively on healthy eating, please consider whether it’s an eating disorder. Express your concerns in a forthright, caring manner. Find a safe, neutral, comforting place for both of you to talk and ask what would be most helpful. The person may deny problems, so it is important to keep the door open for future conversations. Gently but firmly encourage them to seek professional help and offer to attend the evaluation appointment with them. If it’s your child, talk to your pediatrician or an eating disorder specialist. Early intervention is critical for reducing the chance of chronic illness. Mary Tantillo, PhD, PMHCNS-BC, FAED, is director of the Western New York Comprehensive Care Center for Eating Disorders, professor of clinical nursing at the University of Rochester School of Nursing, and founder/CEO of The Healing Connection. What are 3 warning signs of bulimia?Bulimia signs and symptoms may include:. Being preoccupied with your body shape and weight.. Living in fear of gaining weight.. Repeated episodes of eating abnormally large amounts of food in one sitting.. Feeling a loss of control during bingeing — like you can't stop eating or can't control what you eat.. What are 5 physical effects of bulimia?anemia.. low blood pressure and irregular heart rate.. dry skin.. ulcers.. decreased electrolyte levels and dehydration.. esophageal ruptures from excessive vomiting.. gastrointestinal problems.. irregular periods.. What are 3 complications of bulimia?Many different complications can occur due to bulimia nervosa including:. Throat and stomach ulcers.. Tooth decay and cavities.. Esophagus inflammation (esophagitis) and tears.. Damage to your intestines and stomach damage.. Electrolyte imbalance.. Abnormal heart rhythm (arrhythmia).. Heart failure.. Increased risk of suicide.. What does severe bulimia look like?Recurrent episodes of binge eating (eating unusually large quantities of food in a short period of time with feelings of loss of control) followed by inappropriate weight compensatory behaviors (including self-induced vomiting, laxative or diuretic misuse, and excessive exercise) at least once-weekly during the past ...
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