Bulimia Rehab
Understanding the two types of Bulimia Nervosa
There are two sub-types of Bulimia or Bulimia Nervosa to be aware of. These are the non-purging and the purging type. They are described as follows:
- non-purging type – this comprises roughly 6% to 8% of the Bulimia cases in the US today and the individual typically exercises excessively after bingeing. With purging bulimics, this is a secondary form of controlling weight.
- purging type – use their gag reflex to self-induce vomiting after bingeing so that the food they have eaten is not digested. They may also use diuretics, enemas, and laxatives for the same reason.
Knowing which sub-type the bulimic is enables the physician to diagnose the disorder more effectively and recommend the proper course of action to be taken.
How is Bulimia usually treated?
The disorder typically presents a variety of complications to the Bulimia rehab staff that can be medical and psychological in nature. The use of a multi-disciplinary approach is used to treat the disorder. Treatment is usually managed by one of the following:
- a clinical psychologist
- a psychiatrist
- a physician
The primary treatment manager is dictated by the extent of the medical or psychological conditions that are present. The consensus is that the optimum treatment manager is a psychiatrist that has been trained in the fields of medicine and psychology.
Long-term effects and medical complications
There is a broad range of medical complications that can result from continual bingeing and purging as well as the long-term effects of the disorder. These include:
- amenorrhea or irregular menstrual cycles caused by fluctuations in weight and malnutrition
- erosion of tooth enamel, increased number of cavities, and sensitivity to cold and/or hot food due to the constant exposure to gastric acids
- esophageal ruptures, strictures, and ulcers
- intestinal and systemic complications such as edema, electrolyte imbalance and even laxative addiction
- soreness and swelling of the salivary glands from repeated purging
If any of these are present, the condition needs to be addressed immediately by a medical professional in a Bulimia rehab center. Remember that Bulimia can be fatal because it can eventually cause cardiac arrest or a shut-down of the respiratory system.
We are here to help you 24/7/365
Harmony Grove is the premier eating disorder treatment and recovery center in the US and provides our clients with affordable, high-quality treatment programs. Our staff of licensed and trained professionals is very knowledgeable of the different eating disorders and what is involved in the treatment of them. We can customize our programs to address your specific needs so that you recover successfully and return home to live a healthier life.