California Bulimia Therapy

What is Bulimia Nervosa?

One of the primary eating disorders is Bulimia Nervosa which is characterized by restraining from eating followed by a binging or excess intake period which eventually results in feelings of guilt and decreased self esteem. Research has uncovered that the average age of onset of the disorder in the US is 18 years of age and that women are 9 times more likely to suffer with Bulimia Nervosa than what men are.

Bulimics will try to overcome these feelings of decreased self esteem and guilt in a number of different ways. The most common ways that they attempt to do this include:

• defensive vomiting (a.k.a. purging)
• fasting
• over-exercising
• using diuretics, enemas, and laxatives

Additionally, the most common medications that are used in most California Bulimia therapy programs are anti-depressants, especially Selective Serotonin Re-Uptake Inhibitors or SSRI’s for short. These are oftentimes used in California Bulimia therapy at many of the eating disorder treatment and recovery centers located in the state.

The long-term effects and medical complications of Bulimia Nervosa

The continual bingeing and purging which typically characterizes the Bulimic individual’s behavior oftentimes leads to a variety of unpleasant long-term side effects and numerous medical complications. Purging behavior will cause a variety of effects on the different systems of the body which include:

• Amenorrhea (absence of menstrual cycles) or irregular menstrual cycles – it is common knowledge that erratic fluctuations in a person’s weigh and malnutrition associated with Bulimia Nervosa can cause these conditions.
• Esophageal problems – inclusive of ruptures, strictures, and ulcers
• Oral complications – the repeated exposure to gastric acids that occurs during self-induced vomiting results in erosion of tooth enamel, increased number of cavities, and sensitivity to cold and hot foods.
• Soreness and swelling of the salivary glands

The bulimic may also experience systemic disorders of the colon and intestines. The abuse of diuretics can result in edema or an abnormal fluid build-up. Laxative dependence can become an issue as well. Abusing diuretics and laxatives at the same time creates the risk of electrolyte imbalance. Finally, surgical intervention can be necessitated if a loss of normal colonic functions occur.

We are here to help you 24/7/365

Harmony Grove is an eating disorder treatment and recovery center that is known for its successful California Bulimia therapy programs. Our licensed, professional staff members can easily assess your circumstances in order to determine which program will effectively address your personal needs so that you receive the help you deserve and need. We are available to help you 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.