Are there any signs to watch out for if you think your child could be suffering from bulimia?

It'is not easy to tell if someone close to you has bulimia, as they tend to be normal weight or near normal weight. If you think your child could be having problems with their eating, there are things that could confirm your suspicions. These include: sinks and toilets blocked with vomit; large quantities of food going missing from cupboards; empty food packets and the smell of vomit in bathrooms. Disappearing after meals on a regular basis with excuses, such as ‘I’m just going upstairs for something’, ‘I’m just going to the toilet’, are other typical symptoms of bulimia.

 

Is bulimia a constant problem or does it occur in cycles?

Bulimia usually occurs in cycles, which tend to vary from person to person. Some people are bulimic every few months, while others who are more severely affected may binge and purge several times a day. Some people may vomit automatically after they've eaten, while others will eat socially but may be bulimic in private. Many people do not regard bulimia as a problem, while others despise and fear the vicious and uncontrollable cycle they're trapped in. Doctors say you have bulimia if you've been bingeing and then purging an average of two times a week or more, for three months or more.

Does bulimia usually start in the teenage years?

Yes. People are more likely to develop bulimia in their late teens to early 20s. Teenagers who have tried to diet but failed sometimes mistakenly think that this cycle of bingeing and purging will help them to lose weight successfully. Bulimia is often associated with low self-esteem or a general lack of self-confidence.

Is there any connection between bulimia and anorexia?

The most common factors that trigger bulimia are food restriction and stress. This explains the common connection between anorexia and bulimia. People can develop bulimia after a period of anorexia. This is best prevented by regular meals with a variety of foods.

If I’ve had bulimia for several years, will I ever be able to eat normally again?

Many people find it hard to admit to themselves and to others that they have got bulimia so they keep their illness secret for as long as possible. But even if you have been bingeing and purging for several years or more, a combination of anti-depressants and psychotherapy, such as cognitive behavioural therapy, can still help you to start eating again in a healthy way. You should seek help as soon as you can. The earlier you start treatment, the shorter the recovery process.

Can I make a full recovery from bulimia?

Yes, but it may take time. Part of you may want to get better while the other part may feel very scared. This is quite normal and you're likely to have good and bad days. You may also find that the bulimia returns in times of stress.

Can taking laxatives regularly be a symptom of bulimia?

Some people with bulimia take laxatives but taking laxatives, without any other symptoms doesn't necessarily mean you're bulimic. Taking laxatives doesn’t usually lead to weight loss as most of the sugar and fat in food gets into the bloodstream before it reaches the bowels where the laxatives get to work to push it through the intestines as fast as possible.

Taking a lot of laxatives, or taking them often, can also be dangerous. You can get bad diarrhoea and are at risk of dehydration as your body loses water.