Signs and Symptoms of Bulimia in Teenagers

Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by binge eating followed by compensatory behaviors to rid the body of the excessive calories consumed. This can include vomiting, excessive exercise, fasting, or misuse of laxatives or diuretics. The cycle of bingeing and purging can become compulsive and addictive.

Incidence of Bulimia in Teens

• The worldwide prevalence of bulimia is estimated to be around 1% to 3% in young females.
• A European study found that up to 12% of women experience core symptoms of anorexia or bulimia over their lifetime.
• Bulimia affects both women and men, but it is likely underreported in boys and men.
• Stress, ineffective dieting, and attempts to cope with painful emotions or body image issues can trigger bulimia.
• Purging behaviors can cause significant harm to the body.

Signs and Seeking Help

Be concerned if you notice one or more of these symptoms in your teen:

• Binge eating: Consuming significantly more food in a short period than most people would, with a feeling of loss of control.
• Feeling unable to control or stop eating during a binge.
• Continuing to eat even when uncomfortably full.
• Frequent concerns about body weight or shape.
• Feelings of guilt, shame, or anxiety related to eating, body image, or weight.
• Purging food from the body after overeating to avoid weight gain or regain a sense of control.
• Skipping meals or following extreme diets to compensate for eating or overeating.
• Extreme fear of gaining weight.
• Using breath mints to掩盖呕吐后的气味.
• Persistent dissatisfaction with body size or shape.
• Using diet pills or diuretics for weight control.
• Spending excessive time in the bathroom, often vomiting.
• Excessive exercise, including at inappropriate times or when sick or injured.

The Impact of Bulimia on Troubled Teens

Bulimia can have severe physical, mental, and emotional consequences:

• Mineral or electrolyte imbalances
• Abnormal bowel function
• Destruction of tooth enamel
• Broken blood vessels in the eyes
• Anemia
• Moodiness or depression
• Hormone problems
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Esophageal rupture due to vomiting
• Cardiac arrest
• Death

A Word From Verywell

Bulimia is a serious health condition with potentially life-threatening consequences. Early intervention can prevent these outcomes and improve chances of recovery.

If you suspect your teen may have bulimia, talk to your doctor about next steps and treatment options. Online resources, such as the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA), can also provide advice and support.