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When to seek medical advice
By Mayo Clinic staffIf you have any bulimia symptoms, seek medical help as soon as possible. Bulimia usually doesn't get better on its own. It may even get worse if left untreated and take over your life.
When you have bulimia, your life may revolve around food and eating. You may fantasize about food and be preoccupied with cravings for "forbidden" food. You may plan binge-purge episodes or the desire may seem to strike out of nowhere, perhaps triggered by stress, dieting, feelings about weight or body shape, and eating what simply starts as a normal meal with friends. In any case, bulimia is running the show, not you. Bulimia, along with the complications it causes, can rob you of the ability to enjoy life to its fullest.
If you have a primary care doctor, talk to him or her about your bulimia symptoms and feelings. Or seek help directly from a mental health provider. If you're reluctant to seek treatment, try to work up the courage to confide in someone about what you're going through, whether it's a friend or loved one, a health care professional, a teacher, a faith leader, or someone else you trust. They can help you take the first steps to successful bulimia treatment.
Helping a loved one with bulimia symptoms
If you have a loved one you think may have symptoms of bulimia, have an open and honest discussion about your concerns. You may not be able to force someone to seek professional care, but you can offer encouragement and support. You can also help your loved one find a qualified doctor or mental health provider and make an appointment. You may even be able to go to an appointment with him or her.
