Signs of Bulimia Nervosa

Signs of bulimia nervosa can be physical, psychological and behavioural. Here are some of the most common signs and symptoms.

Note: The presence of one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily indicate bulimia nervosa or any other eating disorder. Conversely, not all of these symptoms will necessarily be present in someone with bulimia nervosa.

Here are some of the physical symptoms of bulimia nervosa:

Blisters on the back of the hand and fingers, caused by teeth rubbing during vomiting
Dental cavities, erosion of tooth enamel and bleeding gums
Irregular heartbeat
Swollen glands in the face and neck
Digestive problems, such as indigestion, constipation and diarrhoea
Irregular menstrual cycle
Sore throat
Weakness, tiredness and fatigue
Bloodshot eyes
Stomach pains
Fluid retention
Dehydration
Fluctuations in weight
Erosion of tooth enamel from coming into contact with stomach acid when vomiting
Abnormal menstrual cycle
Changes in body chemistry
Mineral and electrolyte imbalances
Fertility problems
Stomach ulcers
Malnutrition
Epileptic fits
Damage to kidneys
In severe cases the stomach can rupture, or a heart attack may occur leading to sudden death

Here are some of the psychological symptoms of bulimia nervosa:

Depression
Anxiety
Mood swings and irritability
Low self-esteem
Feeling a loss of control
Overly conscious about physical appearance and body weight
Obsession with food, dieting and exercise
Feelings of withdrawal
Perfectionism

Here are some of the behavioural symptoms of bulimia nervosa:

Binge eating, sometimes at strange times such as in the middle of the night
Misuse of laxatives, diuretics, enemas or diet pills
Fasting
Excessive exercising
Leaving the table straight after a meal to vomit
Running water while in the bathroom to disguise the sound of vomiting
Refusing to eat with other people
Frequently spending time alone and wanting privacy
Obsessing about body weight
Withdrawal from social activities