Eating Disorders

WHAT ARE THE WARNING SIGNS OF BULIMIA?

Having awareness about Bulimia and its warning signs and symptoms can make a marked difference to the severity and duration of the illness. Seeking help at the first warning sign is much more effective than waiting until the illness is in full swing. If you or someone you know is exhibiting some or a combination of these signs it is vital to seek help and support as soon as possible.

The warning signs of Bulimia can be physical, psychological and behavioural. It is possible for someone with Bulimia to display a combination of these symptoms.

Physical signs:

Frequent changes in weight (loss or gains)Signs of damage due to vomiting including swelling around the cheeks or jaw, calluses on knuckles, damage to teeth and bad breathFeeling bloated, constipated or developing intolerances to foodLoss of or disturbance of menstrual periods in girls and womenFainting or dizzinessFeeling tired and not sleeping well

Psychological Signs:

Preoccupation with eating, food, body shape and weightSensitivity to comments relating to food, weight, body shape or exerciseLow self esteem and feelings of shame, self loathing or guilt, particularly after eatingHaving a distorted body image (e.g. seeing themselves as overweight even if they are in a healthy weight range for their age and height)Obsession with food and need for controlDepression, anxiety or irritabilityExtreme body dissatisfaction

Behavioural Signs:

Evidence of binge eating (e.g. disappearance or hoarding of food)Vomiting or using laxatives, enemas, appetite suppressants or diureticsEating in private and avoiding meals with other peopleAnti social behaviour, spending more and more time aloneRepetitive or obsessive behaviours relating to body shape and weight (e.g. weighing themselves repeatedly, looking in the mirror obsessively and pinching waist or wrists)Secretive behaviour around food (e.g. saying they have eaten when they haven't, hiding uneaten food in their rooms)Compulsive or excessive exercising (e.g. exercising in bad weather, continuing to exercise when sick or injured, and experiencing distress if exercise is not possible)Dieting behaviour (e.g. fasting, counting calories/kilojoules, avoiding food groups such as fats and carbohydrates)Frequent trips to the bathroom during or shortly after meals which could be evidence of vomiting or laxative useErratic behaviour (e.g. spending large amounts of money on food)Self harm, substance abuse or suicide attempts