Diseases
bulimia nervosa
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Overview
Bulimia nervosa, commonly called bulimia, is a serious, potentially life-threatening eating disorder. People with bulimia may secretly binge — eating large amounts of food with a loss of control over the eating — and then purge, trying to get rid of the extra calories in an unhealthy way.
Symptoms
- 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
- forcing yourself to vomit or exercising too much to keep from gaining weight aft
Causes
- the exact cause of bulimia is unknown. many factors could play a role in the development of eating disorders, including genetics, biology, emotional health, societal expectations and other issues.
Risk factors
- biology
- psychological and emotional issues.
- dieting
Diagnosis
- physical exam
- blood and urine tests
- use the criteria for bulimia listed in the diagnostic and statistical manual
Medicines used
Frequently asked questions
What is bulimia nervosa?
Bulimia nervosa, commonly called bulimia, is a serious, potentially life-threatening eating disorder. People with bulimia may secretly binge — eating large amounts of food with a loss of control over the eating — and then purge, trying to get rid of the extra calories in an unhealthy way.
What are the symptoms of bulimia nervosa?
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, forcing yourself to vomit or exercising too much to keep from gaining weight aft
What causes bulimia nervosa?
the exact cause of bulimia is unknown. many factors could play a role in the development of eating disorders, including genetics, biology, emotional health, societal expectations and other issues.
Which medicines are used for bulimia nervosa?
fluoxetine
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