Bulimia Nervosa
Bulimia Nervosa (BN) is characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors such as vomiting, excessive exercise, or misuse of laxatives.
Bulimia Nervosa
Bulimia Nervosa (BN) is characterized by recurrent episodes of binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors such as vomiting, excessive exercise, or misuse of laxatives. Unlike anorexia, body weight is often normal or slightly elevated, which can delay recognition. BN carries both physical risks (electrolyte disturbances, gastrointestinal damage, dental erosion, esophagitis) and severe psychological distress (shame, guilt, anxiety, and depression). In Saudi Arabia, BN is increasingly recognized in urban populations, with young women disproportionately affected. The societal emphasis on ideal body shapes, dieting culture, and social media influence may contribute to vulnerability. BN may remain hidden due to embarrassment and secrecy surrounding binge-purge cycles.
What constitutes Bulimia Nervosa?
- Recurrent binge eating with a sense of loss of control
- Compensatory behaviors to prevent weight gain
- Self-evaluation overly influenced by shape and weight
- Frequency: at least once weekly for three months
Symptoms and warning signs
- Evidence of bingeing (e.g., disappearance of large quantities of food)
- Self-induced vomiting, laxative misuse, or excessive exercise
- Physical signs: sore throat, dental enamel erosion, swollen salivary glands
- Gastrointestinal disturbances, irregular menstrual cycles
- Emotional signs: anxiety, guilt, mood swings, low self-esteem
Causes and risk factors
- Genetic predisposition and family history of eating disorders
- Societal pressure and body dissatisfaction
- Difficulty regulating emotions or coping with stress
- History of trauma, including bullying or abuse
Treatment approaches
- CBT: gold-standard therapy for BN, addressing maladaptive eating patterns and thought distortions
- Interpersonal Therapy (IPT): improving relationships and reducing interpersonal stress contributing to bingeing
- Medication: SSRIs can reduce bingeing and purging frequency
- Nutritional counseling: structured meal planning and normalizing eating patterns
Why Act Center for Bulimia Nervosa in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia?
Our experienced Bulimia Nervosa therapists in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia offer specialized treatment to help patients break the cycle of bingeing and purging and build a healthier relationship with food.
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