Dr. Abigail McNally on Bulimia Nervosa Part I: Signs and Symptoms

1. Dr. Abigail McNally on
Bulimia Nervosa
Part I: Signs and
Symptoms

2. An eating disorder characterized by serious inner
emotional chaos and dysregulation, bulimia nervosa (BN)
is an eating disorder characterized by food binge
episodes followed by "purging" efforts. A "binge" is
defined as an eating episode in which an objectively
large amount of food over a short amount of time and in
a manner that feels out of control. Thereafter, a "purge" is
defined as any unhealthy attempt to rid the body of the
calories consumed in a binge. Though self-induced
vomiting is the most widely known method of purging, BN
patients may also use ipecac, abuse laxatives and
diuretics, or engage in excessive exercise to rid the body
of calories consumed. Patients with bulimia, as with
anorexia, also place disproportionately large emphasis
on body weight and shape for evaluating the self. Though
most prevalent amongst young adult, Caucasian women,
BN is on the rise across all populations.

3. Recognizing a friend or family member who is
battling with bulimia nervosa can be difficult, as
his/her body may be within a normal range for
height and age, and the behaviors associated with
bulimia nervosa are often practiced in private and
kept hidden from even the closest relatives.
Excessive vomiting may cause the following
symptoms: swollen cheeks, mildly yellowed or
translucent teeth (or dark colors on the backs of
teeth), and broken blood vessels in the eyes. As
fingers and hands might be used to induce
vomiting, scrape marks or discoloration may
appear. Other potentially relevant behaviors
include frequent bathroom visits and/or excessive
exercise, especially after meals.

4. Dr. McNally recommends that if you suspect a
loved one of having bulimia or another related
eating disorder, you express your concern directly
to him/her and immediately help that person find a
referral to a therapist and nutritionist who
specialize in eating disorders.

5. About the Author: Respected psychologist
Dr. Abigail McNally practices privately in
Massachusetts and holds a special interest in
eating disorders among college students and
adults. She is a member of the Multi-Service
Eating Disorder Association (MEDA), a public
referral and education resource for ED patients
and their families.

6. About the Author: Respected psychologist
Dr. Abigail McNally practices privately in
Massachusetts and holds a special interest in
eating disorders among college students and
adults. She is a member of the Multi-Service
Eating Disorder Association (MEDA), a public
referral and education resource for ED patients
and their families.