The anorexic must be shown to be incapable of making rational decisions about their condition. Other forms of treatment range from group therapy, family counselling and psychotherapy to antidepressants. Bulimia nervosa Bulimia is thought to be two to three times more common than anorexia, but is not generally as physically dangerous. However, excessive use of laxatives and self-induced vomiting can cause rupture of the oesophagus, mineral deficiency and dehydration, which can have serious effects on health. Bulimia was only officially recognised in the 1970s and is characterised by a cycle of bingeing and starving.
Many bulimics seem fine, but experts say that, under the surface, they often feel worthless.
Bulimics may have irregular periods or stop having periods at all because of excessive use of laxatives and vomiting. Using laxatives can also cause kidney and bowel problems and stomach disorders. Laxatives do not cause people to lose weight, but remove water and essential minerals, such as potassium, from the body, giving the appearance of weight loss. Excessive vomiting can cause tooth decay, bad breath, mouth ulcers, sore throats and stomach disorders and may have serious long-term health implications. Some experts believe bulimia is the result of an imbalance of chemicals to the brain, but others think the illness is more likely to be linked to a lack of self-worth.