Dear Reader,

Most bulimics eat enormous amounts of food rapidly and in secret, without much appreciation for its taste, texture, or quality. Following these binges, they feel guilty, ashamed, and out of control, and try to get rid of the food through vomiting; overexercising; abusing laxatives, diuretics, or enemas; or not eating for several days. These practices may take place daily or weekly and go on for years.

Is it harmful? YES. Even though people may be bulimic for years, there are dangers associated with bulimia. The most notable is cardiac arrest or heart attack, which is caused by an electrolyte imbalance of the mineral potassium, a consequence of vomiting or the use of certain diuretics. People who vomit frequently will also lose the enamel from their teeth, which subsequently become sensitive to heat, cold, and acids. Their teeth may eventually decay and fall out. Those who abuse laxatives will find that their own natural body processes cannot function properly when they stop using laxatives, and constipation will result. Stomach ulcers and irritation of the esophagus result from vomiting. More scary, an esophageal rupture could happen the first time, or the two hundredth time, you vomit, and this could kill you. Psychologically, there is depression.

People can be cured of bulimia, although the road to recovery is gradual and difficult. The sooner you talk with a mental health professional who specializes in eating disorders, the better. Treatment methods vary,... including learning to like and accept yourself, establishing regular eating patterns (so you don't get so hungry that it triggers a binge), alternative coping strategies for stressful or lonely times, and, in some instances, taking antidepressant medication. The good news is that you can change this self-destructive pattern, with commitment and help.

If you are at Columbia, call Counseling and Psychological Services (CPS) at x4-2468 to schedule an appointment.

Alice

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