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Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder that is very similar to anorexia nervosa. Individuals who suffer from bulimia often have a very negative self-image, obsess over food, and indulge in secretive behaviors, all traits shared by both disorders. The most notable trait that differs bulimia nervosa from anorexia is that rather than food avoidance, bulimics will experience periods of binge-eating, or eating an inappropriately large amount of food. This is usually combined with a feeling of being out of control, or unable to stop eating, even when already satisfied. Following these binges, the individual may experience feelings of guilt, anger, shame, or remorse.
There are two recognized types of bulimia nervosa: the purging type, and the non-purging type. The purging type of bulimic will use self-induced vomiting, laxatives, or diuretics following a binge episode. The non-purging type will use other means of compensating for overeating, such as excessive fasting or exercise.
An official diagnosis generally requires a patient to have been suffering both binge-eating and purging or overcompensating episodes at least twice per week for about three months. These episodes also have to occur outside of an episode of anorexia nervosa.
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