Bulimia is an eating disorder characterized by binge eating followed by purging. Binge eating refers to eating a large amount of food in a short amount of time. Purging refers to the attempts to get rid of the food consumed. This may be done by vomiting or taking laxatives. Other efforts to lose weight may include the use of diuretics, stimulants, water fasting, or excessive exercise.[Most people with bulimia are at a normal weight. The forcing of vomiting may result in thickened skin on the knuckles and breakdown of the teeth. Bulimia is frequently associated with other mental disorders such as depression, anxiety, and problems with drugs or alcohol.[2] There is also a higher risk of suicide and self-harm.

Symptoms:

A fixation on the number of calories consumed

A fixation on and extreme consciousness of one’s weight

Low self-esteem and/or self-harming or Suicidal tendencies

An irregular menstrual cycle in women

Regular trips to the bathroom, especially soon after eating

Depression, anxiety disorders and sleep disorders

Frequent occurrences involving consumption of abnormally large portions of food

The use of laxatives, diuretics, and diet pills

Compulsive or excessive exercise

Unhealthy/dry skin, hair, nails and lips

Fatigue or exhaustion

Treatment:

Antidepressants may help reduce the symptoms of bulimia when used along with psychotherapy. The only antidepressant specifically approved by the Food and Drug Administration to treat bulimia is fluoxetine (Prozac), a type of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI), which may help even if you’re not depressed.