As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, everyone's daily routine has changed. As a result of stay-at-home directives and quarantine recommendations taking centre stage, the majority of the population abruptly began working from home. And at the time, a term that drew a lot of attention was Bulimia Nervosa. People from all walks of life are affected by behavioural health disorders. Similarly, Bulimia Nervosa, like mental health illnesses, does not discriminate based on race, colour, gender, or identity.
Bulimia Nervosa is a serious and sometimes fatal mental health illness that includes disordered eating behaviours. Bulimics use binge eating and other weight-controlling behaviours as a coping mechanism (compensatory behaviors, like purging). These actions are influenced to some extent by having a negative body image or being overly concerned with weight.
People with bulimia, like those with other eating disorders, frequently conceal their illness due to feelings of shame or guilt about their actions. They may go to great lengths to conceal their symptoms, allowing family members and friends to miss warning signs of a problem.
Symptoms- In order to stop binge eating and recover from bulimia, you must first understand why you are doing it. Bulimia signs and symptoms can be physical, behavioural, or emotional.
PHYSICAL SYMPTOMS- Dentists are frequently the first healthcare professionals to identify symptoms of self-induced vomiting in bulimia nervosa patients due to the distinctive pattern of dental erosion, which is most noticeable on the internal surface of the teeth.
Oral health problems aren't the only physical manifestations of bulimia; people may also experience:
The Red Eyes
The back of the hand has calluses.
Chest discomfort
Constipation on a regular basis (resulting from laxative abuse)
Dehydration and electrolyte imbalances
Sore throat on a regular basis
Headache
Palpitations in the heart
Dizziness or loss of balance (may experience fainting)
Ulcers of the mouth
Aches and pains in the stomach
Hand and foot swelling
Swollen glands and roundness around the jaw
Cavities in the teeth
Sensitivity of the teeth
Blood in the vomit
Teeth that are yellowing, greying, spotted, or decaying
BEHAVIORAL SYMPTOMS
The behavioural indicators listed here are the most frequently observed by friends and family members.
Creating routines or rituals that allow for binge eating and cleansing
A strong desire to exercise regardless of how it interferes with other activities
Storing food, stealing food, and consuming a large amount of food at one time are all signs of binge eating.
Evidence of purging includes the need to use the restroom frequently, the desire to take a shower after eating, and the presence of laxative or diuretic products.
Exercising a predetermined amount to "burn off" the calories consumed during extreme eating behaviours (strict dieting followed by overeating)
Shabby appearance
Talking about weight, calories, food, or dieting so frequently that it disrupts normal conversation
Uses substances to suppress appetite, such as detox teas.
EMOTIONAL SYMPTOMS
Depression
Excessive irritability
Extremely critical of oneself
Feeling uncontrollable
Swings in mood
The appearance and weight of a person determines their self-esteem, self-worth, or attractiveness.
There is an urgent need for approval.
Treatment
Bulimia is frequently treated with medication, nutritional therapy, intensive outpatient or inpatient care, outpatient psychotherapy, and/or dietary intervention. Bulimia is a chronic illness that must be monitored on a regular basis. Even after a long period of recovery, it's critical to watch for relapse warning signs, especially in stressful situations.
Cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT)
Dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT)
Family-based treatment (FBT)
These are three types of psychotherapy that are frequently used in the treatment of bulimia
Conclusion
Many bulimics improve with treatment and go on to live healthy lives. Treatment for bulimia is critical for allowing the body to heal, even if it takes time. It is critical to recognise that having an eating disorder is completely normal, and that help is available.
If bulimia runs in your family, learn the symptoms so you can catch it early. Early intervention aids in the modification of harmful eating habits before they become more difficult to change.
If you are concerned that you or a loved one may have an eating disorder, we can assist you. Talk to our healthcare provider at Solh Wellness to take the first step toward protecting your health.
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