Bulimia is a serious condition that leads to a myriad of health complications. When you think a friend or relative may be at risk, it can be terrifying. Don’t worry- we are here to help you to detect this condition in loved ones so you can help them. Read on to find out all of the red flags that indicate a possibility of this frightening eating disorder!
Number Eight: Weight Fluctuation from Bulimia
Most people associate extreme weight loss with eating disorders, although any noticeable weight fluctuation could indicate an eating disorder. In the case of bulimia, it is often a mental habit rather than a method of weight loss. This will most often lead to weight loss, but can also cause weight gain.
Number Seven: Odd Eating Behavior
When a person is dealing with bulimia, it becomes most evident at meal time. If your loved one is engaging in odd diets, especially a liquid diet, or you haven’t actually seen them eat in a while, there is a chance that they may be hiding an eating disorder. Main indicators will be eating discretely, eating uncontrollably, or odd habits that prolong the process of eating (cutting food into tiny pieces, playing with food, tapping fork on plate, etc.).
Number Six: Puffy Cheeks
Abnormally puffy cheeks could also be caused from this eating disorder. Consistent puking will have a myriad of effect on the body, and can often cause cheeks to puff more than usual. This can be especially worrying, because it may indicate more serious underlying health conditions.
Number Five: Scars or Calluses on Hands
When a person is constantly sticking their fingers down their throat to induce puking, the skin on their hands will most likely have a reaction to the stomach acid. In regular bulimics, you may be able to notice a rash, calluses, or even scars on their hands.
Number Four: Teeth Discoloration
Constant puking will have an extreme effect on dental hygiene. Because vomit mainly consists of stomach acid, puking often will begin a process of corroding your teeth. Bulimics often suffer yellowed, rigid, transparent, or even chipped teeth from their eating disorder.
Number Three: Lengthy Bathroom Trips
If your loved one is making constant, lengthy trips to the bathroom, it may be cause for concern. One reason for this is because they may be, unsurprisingly, making themselves puke during this time. However, bulimia can also cause constipation, which will make their condition even more evident.
Number Two: Red Eyes
Consistent vomiting causes many noticeable side effects, but one of the most noticeable will be bloodshot eyes. Because vomiting puts a lot of stress on the body, it is common for people with bulimia to sport eyes ridden with broken blood vessels.
Number One: Weight-Oriented Obsessive Behavior
Too many people are obsessed with weight management these days, and it is never healthy behavior. This sign may not always indicate an eating disorder, but it is a big red flag for a risk of developing one. We hope you enjoyed learning the eight ways to detect bulimia in a friend or relative!