Binge-eating episodes must occur at least twice a week for 3 months to be diagnosed as bulimia nervosa. Weight gain is controlled by self-induced vomiting, strict fasting, vigorous exercise and abuse of laxatives or diuretics. 14 out of 100,000 people suffer from bulimia nervosa. Primarily affects adolescent and young adult females. 1 in 10 patients are male.
Bulimics have an obsession with weight, food and eating.
Bulimics realize they have abnormal eating habits but get addicted to the binge-eating, purge cycle and lose control. Changing weight gain of 5-20 pounds per week. Dry lips and skin around the mouth. Swollen lymph nodes and parotid gland enlargement. Callous on or near the first knuckle of the index finger due to pushing against the upper teeth to induce vomiting.