by Natalie Faulk

Created on: April 01, 2008   Last Updated: April 09, 2009

Bulimia is an eating disorder characterized by periods of binging, or excessive eating, and purging. While vomiting is the primary means for ridding the bulimic's body of food, use of laxatives, diuretics, and excessive exercise are also common methods of "purging." Essentially, the bulimic uses food to fill a void; however, such overeating leads to a period of self-loathing and/or self-disgust, necessitating the purging behavior to eliminate these negative feelings. While the sufferer oftentimes feels out of control during binging periods, there also exists the possibility that in a life filled with chaos, the bulimic uses such purging methods as one aspect over which she has control.

In order to fit the strict classification of bulimia under the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM IV), the patient must engage in at least two binge-purge episodes per week for a minimum of three consecutive months; however, countless permutations of these activities is common. Furthermore, bulimia can present with other eating disorders such as anorexia; and frequently both disorders are applicable to a majority of eating-disordered individuals.

Females tend to be more susceptible to eating disorders; however, males can be afflicted as well. While the exact cause of bulimia, or any eating disorder, is unknown, similar characteristics tend to resurface in bulimic patients; more specifically, family dysfunction, perfectionistic tendencies, and excessive scrutiny on personal appearance. Unlike anorexia, bulimics are often normal weight, which often makes precursory diagnosis difficult. The earliest warning sign of bulimia is a preoccupation with weight and physical appearance; often followed by complaints of abdominal pain, fatigue, weakness, changes in menstrual cycle, vomiting, and diarrhea. Another red flag involves secretive behavior surrounding food and eating; as the bulimic is often consumed with guilt over her behavior and thoughts.

Whereas historically, most eating disordered individuals were teenaged or young adult, there has been a disturbing trend as of late which has seen a dramatic increase in the incidence of eating disorders in older individuals.

Experts suggest that a serotonin imbalance may be to blame. Low serotonin levels contribute to depression; and the high prevalence of depression in bulimics attempts to further explain this relationship. Cultural factors also play a role, particularly with enhanced media scrutiny over celebrity physiques,

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