The disease can persist for years, and in some people the symptoms may be present all their lives. Bingeing and vomiting can cause physical problems including damage to teeth from stomach acid, and heart problems due to the body being depleted of salts. Treatment is aimed at the bulimia nervosa and any associated problems such as low self-esteem or depression . Research suggests that Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, a form of psychological therapy, is an effective treatment for many patients. Further research is being carried out into other forms of psychological therapy which may also be helpful.
Antidepressant medication can also be effective at treating the symptoms of bulimia nervosa.
Sometimes a combination of psychological therapy and drug therapy is used. The documents contained in this web site are presented for information purposes only. The material is in no way intended to replace professional medical care or attention by a qualified practitioner. The materials in this web site cannot and should not be used as a basis for diagnosis or choice of treatment.