Bulimia is an eating disorder. People with bulimia (boo-LEE-mee-uh) often eat large amounts of food over short periods of time (binge eat). Then, to try to prevent weight gain they might:
Often, bulimia begins during the teen years. It’s more common in females, but boys can have bulimia too.
Overeating followed by unhealthy behaviors to prevent weight gain are the two main signs of bulimia (also called bulimia nervosa).
Kids and teens with bulimia may:
People with bulimia are more likely to have anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), or depression. Smoking, alcohol or drug use, and cutting are also more common with bulimia.
The frequent vomiting and unhealthy behaviors of bulimia can cause:
Bulimia can cause serious stomach, heart, and kidney problems. Doctors may order blood tests, urine tests, or an electrocardiogram (ECG) to check for problems.
The exact cause of bulimia isn’t known. Many experts believe that a combination of psychological and genetic factors and social ideas about body size can lead to the condition.
If a doctor thinks a child or teen might have bulimia, they'll do an exam, take a medical history, and ask about eating, exercise habits, and emotional issues.
Doctors and mental health professionals will look for signs such as:
People with bulimia are usually ashamed and try to hide what they are doing. But finding out about bulimia early is the best way to successfully treat it.
If you think your child might have bulimia, talk to your doctor right away.
Bulimia is best treated by a team of doctors, dietitians, and therapists. Treatment includes nutrition counseling, medical care, individual or group therapy, and family-based treatment.
The main goals of treatment are to:
Doctors might prescribe medicines to treat anxiety, depression, or other mental health concerns, if needed.
Most kids and teens with bulimia can be treated at home, but some will need to go to a more intensive day or residential treatment program. Someone with severe dehydration or other serious health issues will need treatment in a hospital.
With the right treatment and support, kids and teens with bulimia can make a full recovery. Relapses (when symptoms come back) can happen, so it’s important to talk to the doctor or therapist to get back on track as soon as possible.
Family members can play a key role in helping their child recover from an eating disorder and return to a healthy weight. Bulimia is linked to strong emotions and worries about body size and shape. Help your child have a healthy body image. Be supportive and encourage positive attitudes about exercise and nutrition at home. Try these tips:
If you are concerned your child may have an eating disorder, call your doctor for advice. The doctor can recommend nutrition and mental health professionals who have experience treating eating disorders in kids and teens. You also can find support and more information online at:
Reviewed by: Christine C. DiPaolo, APN, Kidian Martinez, LCSW
Date Reviewed: Nov 1, 2021