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Bulimia

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Sep 1, 2024.

What is bulimia?

Bulimia is an eating disorder that causes you to binge and purge food. Bingeing means you eat a large amount of food in a short amount of time. Purging means you vomit or use laxatives to get rid of the food. You may also exercise for many hours each day or not eat anything at all in between bingeing episodes to prevent weight gain. Bulimia is also called bulimia nervosa.

What increases my risk for bulimia?

Bulimia usually begins between the ages of 13 and 28. You may continue to have bulimia as an adult. You may have episodes of binging and purging only when you are feeling stressed. The following may increase your risk for bulimia:

What are the signs and symptoms of bulimia?

How is bulimia diagnosed?

Your healthcare provider will check your height and weight and ask about recent weight changes. Tell your provider what, and how much, you eat. Your provider may ask if you exercise, what types of exercise, and how much. Tell the provider about any prior treatment or family history of an eating disorder. You may have a hard time talking about your body. This is okay. Your provider may recommend you talk to an eating disorder specialist. The following tests can help your provider understand how bulimia may be affecting your body:

How is bulimia treated?

Bulimia is a serious medical condition. Treatment is meant to help you develop a healthy relationship with food and your body image. You may also need treatment for health problems caused by bulimia. Your providers will work with you to help you make small, manageable changes. Your family members may also be involved in treatment to help you.

Treatment options

The following list of medications are related to or used in the treatment of this condition.

What can I do to care for myself?

Where can I find support and more information?

Call your local emergency number (911 in the US) if:

When should I seek immediate care?

When should I call my doctor?

Care Agreement

You have the right to help plan your care. Learn about your health condition and how it may be treated. Discuss treatment options with your healthcare providers to decide what care you want to receive. You always have the right to refuse treatment. The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.

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Learn more about Bulimia

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Symptoms and treatments

Further information

Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.