Signs and Symptoms of Bulimia in Teenagers

Signs and Symptoms of Bulimia in Teenagers Eating Disorders Symptoms Print Signs and Symptoms of Bulimia in Teenagers By Kathryn Rudlin, LCSW Medically reviewed by Medically reviewed by Steven Gans, MD on February 27, 2019 Steven Gans, MD is board-certified in psychiatry and is an active supervisor, teacher, and mentor at Massachusetts General Hospital. Learn about our Medical Review Board Steven Gans, MD Updated on June 22, 2019 More in Eating Disorders Symptoms Treatment Diagnosis Awareness and Prevention Bulimia nervosa is a type of eating disorder characterized by repeated episodes of binge eating followed by behavior to compensate for the excessive amount of food consumed. This can include purging, fasting, over-exercising or the abuse of laxatives and diuretics to prevent gaining weight. The cycle of overeating and then purging can become compulsive, in some ways similar to an addiction to drugs. Illustration by JR Bee, Verywell   Incidence of Bulimia in Teens The prevalence of bulimia cases in young females is estimated to be around 1 percent to 1.5 percent. However, a European study found the expression of the core symptoms of anorexia and bulimia to be present in up to 12 percent of females over the course of their lifetimes. Most people who have bulimia are female, but males can certainly struggle with this disorder. In fact, there is likely an underreporting of the condition, especially in males. This eating disorder can be triggered by stress, ineffective dieting, or as an attempt to deal with painful emotions or impaired body image. Purging behaviors make bulimia very harmful to the body. If you have any concerns your teen may be suffering from bulimia seek a professional evaluation from a physician or mental health professional. Signs  and Seeking Help Early intervention improves the chances for a teens successful recovery from an eating disorder. It may be hard to face the signs of bulimia in your teen, but its important to be vigilant in ensuring your childs eating patterns are normal. It may be helpful for you and your teen to talk with your teens primary care physician about eating disorders, the signs you may be noticing, and potential ways to help. Bulimia Discussion Guide Get our printable guide for your next doctors appointment to help you ask the right questions. Download PDF There is cause for concern if you witness one or more of the following symptoms of bulimia: Eating a significantly larger amount of food in a limited period of time than most people would typically eat, known as bingeing.Feeling unable to control or stop eating once a binge starts.Continuing to eat even if feeling uncomfortably full.Expressing frequent concerns about body weight or shape.Experiencing feelings of guilt, shame or anxiety after eating.Purging food from the body after overeating to avoid gaining weight and as an attempt to regain a sense of control.Skipping meals or going on extreme diets to make up for bingeing behaviors.Extreme fear of gaining weight.Using breath mints to cover up after vomiting.Unreasonably discontent with body size or shape.Abnormal or abusive use of diet pills or diuretics over time for weight control.Spending lots of time in the bathroom, usually throwing up.Excessive exercise, at inappropriate times or settings, or even when sick or injured. The Impact of Bulimia on Troubled Teens Bulimia can have a devastating impact on teens. Its important to educate yourself and your teen about the harmful effects of bulimia on the body, mind, and soul. While a full recovery from the physical effects of bulimia can be had, the mental and emotional effects can last a lifetime. Here are the major health consequences of bulimia: Mineral or electrolyte imbalancesAbnormal bowel functionDestruction of tooth enamelBroken blood vessels in the eyesAnemiaBecoming moody or depressedSubstance abuseHormone problemsDizzinessFatigueRupturing in the esophageal wall due to vomitingCardiac arrestDeath Criteria for Bulimia Diagnosis