In today’s world, eating disorders impact many people, and one of the most common types is bulimia nervosa. Bulimia nervosa is marked by cycles of excessive eating followed by attempts to “undo” these actions through behaviors like vomiting. Frequent purging can cause severe health issues.
Bulimia nervosa affects about 2-3% of the population and typically begins between the ages of 14 and 18. There isn’t just one cause of bulimia nervosa. Factors like genetics, societal influences, personality traits, and family environment can contribute to its development. It’s a multifactorial condition, involving many different elements.
Physical signs such as dental problems and calluses on the hands from self-induced vomiting can indicate the disorder. Diagnosing bulimia nervosa requires a thorough medical history and examination. While no specific medications have been proven to treat bulimia nervosa effectively, cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) is often the preferred treatment.
Early recognition and treatment of bulimia nervosa are crucial. Prevention and early intervention are the most powerful tools in managing bulimia nervosa and other eating disorders.
