They consume large amounts of food, sometimes up to 5,000 calories worth, then purge themselves of the excess calories. Some do so by inducing vomiting, abusing laxatives or diuretics, taking enemas, fasting or exercising obsessively. The condition tends to become most serious in late adolescence, but can develop at any age from early adolescence to age 40. Like the anorexic, the bulimic usually is attempting to control weight. Over time, purging can become a destructive, uncontrollable process.
Physical effects can be serious.
Frequent vomiting can cause damage to the tissues of the throat and esophagus, and to the teeth. Bowel, liver and kidney problems, dehydration and seizures are also possible. Electrolyte imbalance resulting in a risk of cardiac arrest is another danger. Many people who have bulimia do not seek help until they reach their thirties or forties. By this time, their eating behavior is deeply ingrained and more difficult to change.