Bulimia Nervosa Flashcards
1
Q
Bulimia Nervosa (BN)
A
Bulimia, also called bulimia nervosa, is a disorder in the eating disorder spectrum:
- Bulimia is characterised by episodes of secretive excessive eating (bingeing) followed by inappropriate compensatory methods of weight control; such as self-induced vomiting (purging), abuse of laxatives and diuretics, or excessive exercise to prevent weight gain.
- There is a sense of lack of control during a feeding episode.
- Subtypes: Purging (vomiting / laxatives / diuretics / enemas) and non-purging (fasting / excess exercise).
- The diagnostic criteria states that binge eating and compensatory behaviour occur on average at least twice a week for 3 months.
2
Q
Clinical signs and symptoms:
A
- Most often normal weight to slightly overweight.
- Binge eating large amounts of food.
- Often follows anorexia or previous episodes of dieting.
- Associated depression, anxiety and tension.
- Periods of fasting and / or laxative abuse.
- Erratic menstrual periods.
- Frequent weight changes.
- Disappearing to the toilet after meals.
- Periods of relapse and episodic purging.
- Sore throat, tooth erosion and swollen parotid glands.
- Reluctance to socialise where food is involved
2
Q
Causes / risk factors:
A
- Personality types that are more giving and passive.
- Jobs which demand weight control or place people near food.
- Shift working.
- Increased alcohol consumption.
- People with glucose intolerance and food intolerances.
- People with low esteem coupled with poor body image.
- Obesity or perceived obesity of specific body parts.
3
Q
Orthodox
medical treatment:
A
CBT (Cognitive behavioral therapy); SSRIs ( Selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors ) are commonly used to prevent binges.
Encouragement of ‘proper’ eating patterns
4
Q
Harm minimisation
A
- Encouraging the use of bicarbonate soda mouth wash after vomiting to reduce dental problems and acid reflux problems.
- Wean clients off laxative use and diuretic use and dispel the myths of use.
- Being aware that often substance abuse (alcohol and drugs) can often go hand in hand with bulimia and refer if necessary to support groups or other professionals.
