Bulimia Nervosa

Eating DisordersBulimia NervosaMental HealthAdolescent Mental HealthAdult Mental HealthDepressionAnxietyPsychiatric Disorders
Written By Stacy Armstrong - Flores

Whole-Person Education for Healthier Minds & Healthier Bodies

Who Can Develop Bulimia Nervosa?

Bulimia nervosa is a serious eating disorder and mental health condition characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating followed by behaviors intended to prevent weight gain, such as self-induced vomiting, misuse of laxatives, fasting, or excessive exercise. Recovery is possible with early, evidence-based treatment.

  • Children, adolescents, and adults

  • Females and males

  • People of any body size or weight

  • Individuals with anxiety, depression, perfectionism, trauma, or a family history may have increased risk

Common Signs & Symptoms

  • Episodes of eating unusually large amounts of food in a short period

  • Feeling unable to stop eating during a binge

  • Self-induced vomiting after eating

  • Misuse of laxatives, diuretics, or diet pills

  • Fasting or excessive exercise to compensate for eating

  • Preoccupation with weight, calories, or body shape

  • Shame or secrecy surrounding eating behaviors

Possible Health Risks

  • Electrolyte imbalances that can affect the heart

  • Dehydration

  • Damage to the teeth from stomach acid

  • Swollen salivary glands

  • Esophageal irritation or tears

  • Irregular heart rhythms

  • Depression, anxiety, and increased suicide risk

How Is Bulimia Nervosa Treated?

  • Medical evaluation and laboratory monitoring

  • Nutrition counseling

  • Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and other evidence-based therapies

  • Family therapy when appropriate

  • Medication, such as certain antidepressants, when clinically indicated

  • Treatment of co-occurring mental health conditions

When to Seek Immediate Help

  • Chest pain, fainting, severe dehydration, or vomiting blood

  • Thoughts of self-harm or suicide—call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department

Recovery Is Possible

Recovery often involves a team that includes medical, mental health, and nutrition professionals. Many people recover and go on to live healthy, fulfilling lives.

SHINE Reminder

You are more than your eating disorder. Asking for help is a sign of courage, and healing is possible one step at a time.

Ready to Find Relief?
Book an appointment with SHINE Primary & Psych Care
Strength • Healing • Inspire • Navigate • Empower
Compassionate Primary Care • Mental Health • Whole-Person Wellness

This handout is for educational general awareness purposes only. It is not intended to diagnose, treat, or replace an evaluation by a qualified healthcare professional.

Stacy Armstrong - Flores

With over 30 years of healthcare experience, I have dedicated my career to caring for individuals across all stages of life and in a variety of healthcare settings, including primary care, behavioral health, hospice, home health, nursing homes, and Veteran care. My journey from CNA to LVN, RN, BSN, FNP, and Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse Practitioner has given me a unique understanding of the connection between physical and mental wellness.

I believe in treating the whole person—not just the symptoms. My goal is to provide compassionate, evidence-based care that empowers individuals to heal, grow, and achieve lasting wellness.

https://ShinePrimaryPsych.com
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