Self-induced vomitingExcessive exerciseMisuse of laxatives
It is a serious disorder and can be life-threatening.
Bulimia is typically diagnosed using a combination of physical and psychological exams and lab tests. Learn more.
Professional Screenings If bulimia does not require emergency treatment, the process of diagnosing bulimia usually begins with a primary healthcare provider.
To start, the healthcare provider will perform a full examination. This might include:
Taking a medical history, including a mental health history Asking about family medical history, including eating disorders, mental health disorders, or substance use disorders Reviewing symptoms or concerns Asking about current medications being taken Measuring height and weight Checking vital signs (such as heart rate, blood pressure, and temperature) Examining skin and nails Listening to the heart and lungs Feeling the abdomen Asking about diet (what and how much is eaten, binge-eating and purging frequency, compensatory behaviors such as vomiting, use of laxatives or diuretics, fasting, exercise routine, etc....