This disorder typically begins to present itself in the pre-teen years and is most commonly diagnosed in females.
However, males can also develop bulimia, and it is crucial to check for symptoms regardless of gender.
Symptoms of bulimia are oftensomatic-basedand result from the bodily trauma resulting from constant binging and purging.
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The most studied and recommended treatments includepsychotherapyandmedication.
Mental health professionals can offer these two treatments in tandem in residential inpatient programs.
This article will review each of these treatments in detail.
Psychotherapy
Below discusses the types of therapy that can help treat bulimia.
Interpersonal Psychotherapy
Interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT)is another recommended form of talk therapy.
This brief evidence-based treatment explores social and interpersonal factors that prevent recovery from eating disorders.
The aim of IPT is to encourage the individual to createlifestyle changesthat are supportive of their recovery.
Topiramate is an anti-epileptic medication used off-label to treat bulimia.
It has shown some success in minimizing binge episodes.
Despite this success, it is important to note the side effects.
For example,cognitive functioningimpairment and weight loss can outweigh the benefits that taking this medication can bring.
Dehydration is a common concern for those experiencing bulimia, for which saline in an IV drip is administered.
Constipation can also result from excessive binging and purging or detoxing from laxatives.
Below is one throw in of treatment that is sometimes used to treat bulimia.
Moving through treatment for bulimia can be challenging, but recovery is possible.
Your well-being is worth it.
Jain A, Yilanli M.Bulimia nervosa.
Treasure Island, FL.
StatPearls Publishing; 2022.
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).Eating disorders.
Murphy R, Straebler S, Cooper Z, Fairburn CG.Cognitive behavioral therapy for eating disorders.Psychiatr Clin North Am.
2016;4(1):38. doi: 10.1186/s40337-016-0130-2
