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You are here : 3-RX.com > Medical Encyclopedia > Diseases and Conditions > Bulimia
      Category : Health Centers > Eating Disorders

Bulimia

Alternate Names : Binging-Purging, Bulimia Nervosa, Hyperorexia

Overview, Causes, & Risk Factors | Symptoms & Signs | Diagnosis & Tests | Prevention & Expectations | Treatment & Monitoring

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:

  • fasting
  • inducing vomiting
  • using laxatives to have bowel movements
  • taking diuretics, or water pills
  • 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.


       

    Next section

       

    Bulimia: Symptoms & Signs

    Author: Ann Reyes, Ph.D.
    Reviewer: Brenda Broussard, RD, CDE
    Date Reviewed: 06/01/01



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