Bulemia Essay, Research Paper

Bulimia

In bulimia, eating binges may occur as often as several times a day. Induced vomiting known as purging allows the eating to continue until interrupted by sleep, abdominal pain, or the presence of the person is usually aware that their eating pattern is abnormal and may experience fear or guilt associated with the binge-purge episodes. This behavior is usually secretive, although clues to this disorder may include over activity, particular eating habits, and frequent weighing. Body weight is usually normal or low, although the person may perceive himself or herself as overweight.

The exact cause of bulimia is unknown, but factors thought to contribute to its development are family problems, maladaptive behavior, self-identity conflict, and cultural overemphasis on physical appearance. Bulimia may be associated with depression. The disorder is usually not associated with any underlying physical problem although the behavior may be associated with some diseases. The disorder occurs most often in females of adolescent or young adult age. The chances of having bulimia are 2 in 10,000 people.

The symptoms of bulimia include binge eating, self-induced vomiting, inappropriate use of laxatives, decreased or absent menstruation, and overachieving behavior. A cultural and family de-emphasis on physical appearance may eventually reduce the occurrences of this disorder.

Signs and testing might include a dental exam. This may show dental cavities, or gum infections like gingivitis. The enamel of the teeth may be eroded or pitted because of excessive exposure to acid in vomit.

Treatment focuses on breaking the binge-purge cycles of behavior since the person is usually aware that the behavior is abnormal. Outpatient treatment may include behavior modification techniques and individual, group, or family counseling.

Isnt one