I have a wife with bulimia and it was getting to the point where I couldn't take it any more. She needed bulimia treatment badly, but I didn't know where to turn. Through the internet I came across your site and sent my wife for bulimia treatment at your center.
Whoever she first spoke with made her feel so comfortable, she even became excited about the possibility of not having to binge and purge any more. The change in her is amazing. I know she will always be recovering, but I am proud to say she is the most courageous person I know. Thank you for all of your help.
-- Preston V., Nashua, New Hampshire
I needed to find an eating disorder clinic so badly. I used to eat compulsively and had swung over completely to purging and laxatives. I felt so bad about myself, the shame and guilt was just killing me. I had been to an eating disorder clinic before, but they really did not address my mood swings, that I have since understood them to be a bipolar disorder.
Your staff kept telling me that my eating behavior was a symptom of other problems. Well even though I didn't believe them they turned out to be right. I don't use laxatives, I have even learned to exercise moderately. Thank you so much. By the way, it has been ten months since I last purged.
-- Bonnie S., Boston, Massachusetts
Well Shelly, I told you I would write when I had one year in recovery and here I am. Who would have guessed. I have so much gratitude for you taking your time and referring me to a great facility. I knew from the moment I walked in there that I was in the right place. The next time I come by it will be to visit, not as a patient. You are absolutely the greatest.
-- Venessa C., Raleigh, North Carolina
Anorexia and Bulimia
Understanding Anorexia and Bulimia
Anorexia and bulimia are dangerous illnesses that cause a person to either starve themselves or binge and purge. Both of these eating disorders create health-compromising medical problems.
Eating very little regardless of weight is characteristic of those suffering from anorexia. Bulimia involves binging and purging, meaning those suffering from this disorder will eat large amounts at a time and then rid themselves of the food.
People suffering from anorexia or bulimia have an incredible fear of gaining weight. If they gain weight, in their minds that equates into being ugly, fat and undesirable. The slightest weight gain, or perceived weight gain, will result in more frequent attempts to lose more weight through starving, purging, taking laxatives, or exercising compulsively.
Anorexia and bulimia are characterized in part by a refusal to eat and repeated attempts at dieting. Even if individuals suffering from anorexia or bulimia are a normal weight, their body images are distorted, causing them to continually attempt weight loss. The thought process of those suffering from anorexia or bulimia is that if they only weighed a certain number, life would be "good" and they would feel good about themselves. The truth is that weight cannot and does not determine your self-esteem or self-worth.
For help with anorexia or bulimia, call us now at 1-800-941-5313. We can find you help anywhere in the United States. All calls are confidential.
Medical Problems Associated with Anorexia and Bulimia
The most noticeable consequences of anorexia and bulimia have to do with weight loss. In some cases, these consequences resemble those of starvation. Other medical consequences associated with anorexia include:
Becoming extremely thin
Brittle hair and nails
Dry skin
Loss of menstrual cycle
Reduction in muscles
More sensitive to cold
Low pulse and heart rate
Joint pain
Heart and muscle deterioration
Medical problems associated with bulimia include:
Heartburn
Irregular periods in women
Swollen glands in neck and face
Bloodshot eyes
Swollen esophagus
Dental problems
Vomiting blood
Indigestion
Exhaustion
Almost 10% of women with anorexia or bulimia will die of medical complications.
Anorexia and bulimia are recognized as psychiatric illnesses requiring the help of a psychiatrist, nutritionist, licensed mental health therapist, physician, 24-hour nursing, and possibly an endocrinologist. Additionally, treatment for anorexia or bulimia should include family therapy, cognitive behavioral therapy and medication management.
If you require confidential assistance in locating safe and effective treatment for anorexia or bulimia, please call the national eating disorder treatment helpline toll-free at 1-800-941-5313. All calls are confidential. Get help NOW!
