Bulimia is a type of eating disorder where individuals experience uncontrolled episodes of overeating, known as bingeing. Bingeing involves consuming much larger amounts of food than usual within a short period, typically less than 2 hours. People with bulimia may feel unable to stop or control these episodes of binge eating. There are two ways in which people with bulimia restrict their calorie intake:
Purging type: This involves self-induced vomiting or the misuse of laxatives, diuretics, enemas, or other medications that clear the intestines. The binge-purge cycles can occur multiple times a day or several times a week.
Nonpurging type: Instead of purging behaviors, individuals with this type of bulimia use other methods, such as fasting or excessive exercise, to restrict their calorie intake.

The exact cause of bulimia is unknown, but societal and cultural pressures regarding body weight and shape, as well as genetic factors, are believed to contribute to its development. Bulimia primarily affects females during their teenage years, but it can also impact males. Those with bulimia often come from families with a history of eating disorders, physical illness, and mental health issues. Additionally, individuals with bulimia commonly experience other conditions such as substance use disorder, anxiety disorders, and mood disorders. Many individuals with bulimia maintain a normal or above-normal body weight, allowing them to conceal their problem for years. It is common for people with bulimia to only seek help when they are around 30 or 50 years old. By this time, their eating behavior has become deeply ingrained and more difficult to change.

Some typical signs of bulimia may include having a normal or above average body weight, repeated episodes of binge eating and fear of not being able to stop eating, self-induced vomiting (usually done in secret), excessive exercise, excessive fasting, unusual eating habits or rituals, improper use of laxatives or diuretics, irregular or absence of menstruation, anxiety, feelings of dissatisfaction with themselves and their body, depression, obsession with food, weight, and body shape, constantly having an inflamed or sore throat, fatigue and decreased energy, and dental issues due to enamel erosion from vomiting.

Bulimia can lead to various complications, such as stomach rupture, heart problems caused by the loss of important minerals and electrolytes like potassium and sodium, dental issues due to the acid in vomit eroding the outer layer of teeth, an inflamed esophagus, swollen glands near the cheeks, irregular menstrual periods, kidney problems, decreased sex drive, substance use disorder, compulsive behavior, depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and other mental health problems, as well as suicidal behavior.

Bulimia is diagnosed by healthcare professionals by gathering a detailed history of behaviors, sometimes including psychological testing. Blood tests may also be done to check overall health and nutritional status. Early treatment is important to prevent future problems, as bulimia can be deadly and affect nearly every organ system in the body. If you suspect bulimia, seek help from a healthcare provider.

Bulimia is commonly treated through a combination of individual therapy and family therapy. The main goal is to modify your behavior and address any nutritional issues. Besides a therapist, your healthcare provider and a nutritionist will also be involved in your treatment plan. In some cases, a hospital stay may be needed to treat electrolyte problems.

Sources:
https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/eating-disorders/bulimia-nervosa