Bulimia Nervosa
An eating disorder involving recurrent episodes of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors such as self-induced vomiting or excessive exercise.
Overview
Bulimia nervosa involves recurrent episodes of binge eating followed by inappropriate compensatory behaviors, such as self-induced vomiting, laxative misuse, fasting, or excessive exercise, occurring at least weekly over a sustained period.
Signs and Symptoms
Symptoms can include eating unusually large amounts of food with a sense of loss of control, followed by compensatory behaviors, along with self-evaluation unduly influenced by body shape and weight. Experiencing one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that a person has this condition. Diagnosis requires an appropriate clinical evaluation.
Causes and Risk Factors
The exact cause is not fully understood. Genetic, psychological, and sociocultural factors are associated with bulimia nervosa.
Diagnosis
A diagnosis should be made by a qualified healthcare professional following a comprehensive clinical assessment. Clinicians may use established diagnostic frameworks such as DSM-5-TR and/or ICD-11 as part of a comprehensive assessment.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the individual’s symptoms, clinical history, severity, age, co-occurring conditions, and other relevant factors.
Psychotherapy
Cognitive behavioral therapy has strong evidence supporting its use for bulimia nervosa.
Medication
Certain antidepressant medications are FDA-approved for bulimia nervosa and may be used alongside psychotherapy. Medication decisions should be made with a qualified prescribing healthcare professional. Do not start, stop, or change a prescribed medication based solely on information on this page.
Living With Bulimia Nervosa
Regular eating patterns and ongoing medical monitoring, given potential physical effects of purging behaviors, are important during recovery.
When to Seek Professional Help
Professional evaluation may be appropriate if symptoms persist, worsen, cause significant distress, or interfere with work, school, or relationships. Bulimia nervosa can cause serious medical complications, so prompt evaluation is important.
Emergency Situations
If a person may be in immediate danger, is experiencing a medical or psychiatric emergency, or may harm themselves or another person, seek immediate assistance through appropriate local emergency services.
Outlook
Many people experience significant improvement with evidence-based treatment, particularly cognitive behavioral therapy.
Related Conditions
Medical Information Disclaimer
Ratel Health provides general educational information and does not provide medical diagnosis, treatment, or individualized medical advice. Information on this page is not a substitute for evaluation or care from a qualified healthcare professional. Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or another person, or to start, stop, or change treatment or medication without consulting an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.
References
- American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR).
- National Institute of Mental Health.
- U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
- World Health Organization. International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision.