Bulimia nervosa – better known as “bulimia” – is an eating disorder characterized by patterns of bingeing (consuming a large amount of food in a short amount of time) and purging (eliminating calories consumed). The binge-purge cycles may happen several days a week or several times a day.
There is no one cause of bulimia. A number of different biological, psychological and sociocultural factors contribute to the development of this condition. Other conditions, including substance use, anxiety disorders, and mood disorders can co-occur with bulimia.
There are many serious health risks associated with bulimia, including cardiac complications (irregular heartbeat and heart failure stemming from electrolyte imbalances), dehydration, edema (stemming from periods of purging cessation), ulcers, and pancreatitis.
Treatment for bulimia involves a thoughtful balance of medical, psychiatric, therapeutic and dietary interventions. See the link for further information on BN.
https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/learn/by-eating-disorder/bulimia
