Bulimia Nervosa

Bulimia Nervosa is an eating disorder which is characterized by consumption of food in large quantity. In most cases the affected persons end up using laxative abuse or vomiting in order to regulate weight gain. This paper analyses the symptoms and treatment of Bulimia Nervosa.

Bulimia Nervosa is caused by psychological, family, and genetic factors. It has many different symptoms which include: eating high in calories foods in large quantity, losing control over the eating habits, self disgust, excessive exercises, use of pills and laxatives in order to prevent weight gain and forceful vomiting among many other symptoms (Phillip, 2011).

It is important to note that in cases where this disorder is not discovered, checked and controlled, it may lead to diverse medical effects and body harm.  However, this disorder can be treated. The approach and type of treatment vary from patient to patient. It also depends on the person’s response to the treatment and the seriousness of the disorder. The treatment involves introduction of affected persons to support groups, nutritional therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and use of anti-depressants (Griswold, 2006).

Living with Bulimia is the same as putting a person’s life at risk. It not only leads to dehydration but also causes complications such as constipation, swelling of the throat and electrolyte imbalances. In extreme cases, the affected person may experience very low levels of potassium. This may lead to kidney failure. Living with bulimia can be very scary especially when it gets out of control. However, many people living with bulimia have managed to break the purge and binge cycle. This has not only helped them to develop a positive attitude towards their diet but also towards their body (Sim, 2009).

Bulimia Nervosa can be very dangerous if left unchecked and untreated. This is because it leads to many different grave medical conditions. In this case, affected persons should have the will to recover from this illness.