Extroverted women, bulimics may have grown up in families with alcoholism and crime problems, and they tend to maintain a normal weight. A history of sexual abuse has been identified in victims of both conditions, particularly in bulimics. Dental enamel eroded by stomach acid and lack of menstruation are other signs. Treatment typically involves several different specialists, such as an adolescent medicine physician, a psychiatrist or other mental health provider, and a nutritionist, working as a team. If the problem is severe, the patient may need to spend some time in a hospital.
Some patients benefit from antidepressants or other psychotropic medications.
Counseling is usually vital, as the victim has to increase her sense of self-worth. Until she does that, she's always at risk of reverting back to these eating disorders. For more information about eating disorders or other health matters, call 638-6767.