Bulimia Nervosa is characterized by cycles of binge eating followed by purging, usually done in secret. The individual's weight may range from below to above average, so it may be harder to detect. In addition, some people may have a mixture of anorexia and bulimic symptoms without qualifying for either diagnosis. They may engage in compulsive overeating or bingeing without purging. Preoccupied and significantly distressed about their eating habits, they may gradually gain weight to the point of obesity.
Many people have both symptoms of anorexia and bulimia.
Men are most likely to lose weight or to purge by excessively exercising. They consume the individual in obsessive, negative thinking and behaviors, and they consume the individual's relationships with family members, loved ones, and life. This is partially due to the effects of starvation. When people are not adequately nourished, they think about food constantly, sometimes even dreaming about it. They also become depressed, isolated, and tired.