There are also reports that the rate of bulimia among males is rising. Most people develop bulimia nervosa between the ages of 14-25. Bulimia nervosa may begin during or after an episode of dieting, or it may follow from a period of anorexia. Unfortunately, like all of the eating disorders, bulimia nervosa is a chronic condition. The sufferer may often disappear to the toilet after meals.
Weight can appear to fluctuate due to alternating bingeing and fasting.
If the sufferer vomits repeatedly, their salivary glands become inflamed and their face will look swollen. The sufferer may be having other problems such as alcohol or drug abuse. They may also steal, or engage in self-mutilation. Periods of bingeing, purging and strict dieting can lead to muscle cramps, muscle spasms, irritability and depression. The throat, stomach and bowel can become damaged.