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Bulimia in Athletes

By Nicole Bourquin, MS, BA
Reprinted from Eating Disorders Today
Fall 2005 Volume 3, Number 4
©2005 Gürze Books

Possible Symptoms of Bulimia and/or Other Disordered Eating in Athletes:

1. Abrasion or scar on the back of the hand from self-induced vomiting

2. Dehydration, muscle cramps, weakness, etc.

3. Dental, gum problems, halitosis (bad breath), “cotton” or dry mouth

4. Water retention (Edema), bloating

5. Electrolyte imbalances, fainting, light headedness, “black-outs”

6. Weight fluctuations, often with mood fluctuations where as a worse mood occurs as an individual gains weight

7. Gastrointestinal problems

8. Menstrual irregularity

9. Swollen parotid glands, “chipmunk cheeks,” puffy, red, blood-shot eyes

10. Binge eating, secretive eating and/or hiding food

11. Depression/isolation, and/or extreme mood swings

12. Extreme dieting practices, including the use of diet aids or diet teas, “detox diets”

13. Use of laxatives and/or diuretics

14. Use of the restroom right after eating, running water in the restroom, or “taking a shower” right after eating

15. Stealing, especially when items taken are related to bulimia (i.e. food, laxatives, money)

16. Substance abuse—legal, illegal, prescribed, or over-the-counter drugs (speed/methamphetamine), diet pills, highly caffeinated drinks, and/or steroid use

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