Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Hyperorexia - Bulimia
- Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
- Symptoms & Signs
- Diagnosis & Tests
- Prevention & Expectations
- Treatment & Monitoring
- Attribution
Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors
Bulimia is a chronic eating disorder. It is characterized by periods of eating and then trying to avoid weight gain.
What is going on in the body?
Individuals with bulimia secretly eat large amounts of food in a short period. This is called binge eating. They then try to avoid weight gain. They may do this by one of the following methods:
What are the causes and risks of the condition?
Bulimia is thought to be a result of social, psychological, and biological factors. Genetics may contribute. Mood disorders are more common in family members of those who develop bulimia.
Social factors play a major role. Some societies emphasize thinness. Family problems, self-esteem, and identity conflicts are also factors. Bulimia is most common in females in adolescence or young adulthood.
Symptoms & Signs
What are the signs and symptoms of the condition?
Symptoms of bulimia may include the following:
Diagnosis & Tests
How is the condition diagnosed?
Diagnosis of bulimia begins with a history and physical exam. The healthcare provider may order tests to check the person's health status, including:
Prevention & Expectations
What can be done to prevent the condition?
There are no specific ways to prevent bulimia. Promoting good nutrition and self-esteem are important. Changes in society's attitudes about thinness would help.
What are the long-term effects of the condition?
Bulimia can cause dehydration, malnutrition, and salt imbalances. It can affect the brain and muscles. It can damage the reproductive tract, bowels, stomach, and other body organs. It can cause serious heart problems, including:
Someone with bulimia may have trouble developing healthy relationships. The person also may be limited in the ability to succeed at school or work.
Treatment & Monitoring
What are the treatments for the condition?
A team approach to treatment is most effective. This includes:
Bulimia may be treated in the hospital, or on an outpatient basis. The person's weight, cardiac status, and overall health influence the treatment choice. Some people become so malnourished that they need to be fed through tubes to stay alive. They will have strict rules about eating and weight management.
A combination of anxiety \ \
Medications are rarely used to treat bulimia. If the person has significant depression, antidepressants may be used.
What are the side effects of the treatments?
If antidepressants are used, they may cause drowsiness, dry mouth, and constipation.
What happens after treatment for the disease?
Psychotherapy usually continues for at least one year after treatment starts. Some individuals may need 5-6 years of therapy. People who recover from bulimia need to be aware that this illness can recur.
How is the disease monitored?
The individual will have regular visits with the healthcare provider. Any new or worsening symptoms should be reported to the provider.
Attribution
Author:Ann Reyes, Ph.D.
Date Written:
Editor:Ballenberg, Sally, BS
Edit Date:06/01/01
Reviewer:Brenda Broussard, RD, CDE
Date Reviewed:06/01/01