Bulimia Nervosa

by Bud Lambert

One of the characteristics of godly love is recognizing tile needs of others ( Luke 10:25-37). Here is some information about Bulimia Nervosa that can help us love those who are sufferfng with this eating disorder.
Bulimia Nervosa is a disorder characterized by repeated episodes of binge eating. These episodes are followed by self-induced vomiting, or using laxatives and/or diuretics in an attempt to rid the body of tIfe food eaten. Bulimia Nervosa occurs most often in young women from their late teens
to mid-thirties.

Physical warning signs include consuming huge amoupts of food in a short period of time: swollen salivary glands from vomiting that give the face a mump-like appearance; sore throat from vomiting; weight fluctuations between normal weight and overweight; and irregular menstrual periods.
Psychological warning signs include preoccupationwith body shape and weight; feelings of lack of control over food; low self-esteem; depression; and mood swings.
Health risks associated with Bulimia Nervosa are tooth loss; throat damage; dehydration; ruptures in the esophagus and stomach; irregular heartbeat; heart failure; death.
Anorexia Nervosa and Bulimia Nervosa are serious health threats to both the physical and psychological well-being of the joung adults suffering from them: High-risk times for develeping an eating disorder are during puberty, and when teenagers begin aating. Leftuntreated, these disorders may become life-threatening. Studies have shown the death rate from Anorexia Nervosa to be as high as 20%. Early diagnosis and continued long-term treatment is vitally important.
If you know someone who has these signs and symptoms, please encourage them to seek the advice of a health professional s soon as possible. For a confidential source of help, call 758-2274.

• Anorexia Nervosa -Jan 31, 1999