Bulimia Nervosa FactsBulimia nervosa
is a serious, potentially life-threatening eating disorder
characterized by a cycle of bingeing and compensatory
behaviors such as self-induced vomiting designed to undo
or compensate for the effects of binge eating.
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Regular intake of large amounts of
food accompanied by a sense of loss of control over
eating behavior.
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Regular use of inappropriate
compensatory such as self-induced vomiting, laxative or
diuretic abuse, fasting, and/or obsessive or compulsive
exercise.
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Extreme concern with body weight and
shape.
The chance for recovery increases the earlier a binge eating disorder, such as bulimia, is detected. Therefore, it is important to be aware of some of the warning signs of bulimia nervosa.
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Evidence of binge eating, including
disappearance of large amounts of food in short periods
of time or the existence of wrappers and containers
indicating the consumption of large amounts of food.
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Evidence of purging behaviors,
including frequent trips to the bathroom after meals,
signs and/or smells of vomiting, presence of wrappers or
packages of laxatives or diuretics.
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Excessive, rigid exercise regimen
despite weather, fatigue, illness or injury
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Unusual swelling of the cheeks or
jaw area.
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Calluses on the back of the hands
and knuckles from self-induced vomiting.
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Discoloration or staining of the
teeth.
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Creation of lifestyle schedules or
rituals to make time for binge and purge sessions.
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Withdrawal from usual friends and
activities.
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In general, behaviors and attitudes
indicating that weight loss, dieting and control of food
are becoming primary concerns.
Information obtained from National Eating Disorder Association (NEDA).
www.NationalEatingDisorders.org
McCallum Place is an eating disorder treatment center specializing in bulimia treatment. McCallum offers a residential treatment program as well as transitional programs where individuals who suffer from bulimia nervosa will meet with other individuals and an eating disorder specialist to receive bulimia conseling. The primary goals at McCallum are stabilization of symptoms, weight restoration and the beginning to build the foundation for a strong recovery.
In all we do, we strive to help individuals build the confidence and skills necessary to let go of their patterns of bingeing, purging and compulsive eating. Our protocols are designed to help patients restore weight to within 90% of ideal body weight and to minimize relapse with binge eating, vomiting and compulsive exercise. Patients practice weight maintenance and flexible eating prior to discharge. When possible, a gradual step down is recommended to ease the transition back to independent living.
We give individuals the power to manage the fears associated with new meal expectations and changes in body size. Our goal is to change the way each individual uses food and body image to express underlying emotional needs and concerns.
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