psychiatric disorders
Bulimia Nervosa
Key Points
Bulimia nervosa involves recurrent episodes of binge eating followed by inappropriate compensatory behavior such as self-induced vomiting, laxative or diuretic abuse, fasting, or excessive exercise. Unlike patients with anorexia nervosa, patients rarely lose much weight or develop nutritional deficiencies. Recurrent self-induced vomiting may erode dental enamel and/or cause esophagitis. Serious fluid and electrolyte disturbances, especially Hypokalemia , occur occasionally. Rupture of the esophagus or stomach or cardiomyopathy are rare complications. Treat with cognitive behavioral therapy and sometimes an SSRI. 