Bulimia nervosa is a serious eating disorder which involves consuming large quantities of food, followed by attempting to eliminate the extra calories by either self-induced vomiting or excessive use of laxatives. Psychotherapy, antidepressant medication, and nutritional counseling are the treatments most often prescribed. In addition to traditional medical intervention, complimentary medicine practices such as yoga or massage can be a beneficial adjunct by lessening anxiety. Although bulimia nervosa treatment can normally take place out of the hospital, severe cases may require hospitalization. An alternative to hospitalization could be clinics that focus on eating disorders and provide in-depth inpatient care.
Psychotherapy is a type of intervention that involves discussing the condition with a mental health professional. A variety of psychotherapy is employed called cognitive behavioral therapy, which involves identifying unhealthy thoughts and replacing them with healthy ones. For example, the erroneous concept that restrictive eating produces thinness can be replaced with the truth that it leads to binge eating. Family therapy can be valuable in resolving conflicts and in involving family members to help the patient engage in healthy eating practices.
Antidepressant drugs may lessen symptoms. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved fluoxetine as a bulimia nervosa treatment, but sometimes other antidepressants are prescribed. Selected studies suggest that antidepressants can produce suicidal thoughts in children and teenagers, so this age group should be watched extremely carefully for any tendencies in this area. Other psychiatric medication can be used to treat anxiety that is sometimes associated with this condition.
A dietician or nutritionist can assist the family and patient in developing a healthy eating plan. This is especially important if the patient is underweight. In these cases, the first goal of bulimia nervosa treatment is to attain a normal weight. For those who engage in binge eating, a medically supervised eating plan may be helpful.
Aside from doctor-prescribed treatment, patients can engage in self-care practices that are helpful. A vitamin and mineral supplement may be beneficial for those who aren't eating well. Any bulimia nervosa treatment must be strictly followed, including not missing therapy periods or deviating from meal plans. Patients should also learn about their condition as it can motivate them to persevere with their treatment. They should abstain from excessive exercise, only engaging in the recommended amount.
Complementary medicine areas such as yoga or massage can be helpful in binge eating disorder treatment. Yoga benefits include producing relaxation and a sense of well-being. One study involving the use of therapeutic massage in bulimia showed promising results. The patients receiving this treatment were less anxious and depressed and achieved better scores on eating disorder assessment tests.
