Eating Disorders: Bulimia Nervosa (BN)

What is Bulimia Nervosa (BN)?

binging on food or episodes of overeating and then purging food to avoid weight gain

Purpose for Bulimia?

control weight

vomiting

laxative abuse

What do BN and AN have in common?

obsessed with body appearance and many people with BN also have AN

What is the diagnostic criteria for Bulimia Nervosa?

minimum of 1x a week over 3 months

What is Binge eating?

rapid consumption of uncommonly large amount of food in a short timespan

What foods are commonly contributed during binge eating episode?

junk food, fast foods, high-calorie foods

How does an individual feel at first, during, and after a binge episode and after?

At first: pleasant

During: out of control

After: distressing, guilt (engage in purge tendencies)

When do individuals typically end binge?

when it results in abdominal pain, interrupted, or runs out of food

What are ways an individual can purge?

self-induced vomiting

enemas

diuretics

Why do individuals purge?

a ritual to regain self-control

B.N. Indicators & complications

enlarge salivary glands, bloating, slow peristalsis, stomatitis, loss of dental enamel, fluid, electrolyte, and acid-base imbalance, unexplained stomach pain, sore throat, Russell’s sign, swollen cheeks, menstrual irregularities, dysrhythmias, esophageal tears, stomach rupture, rectal tears