Expert: Joanne - 7/31/2008

Question
Today i binged 3 times and after every binge session i purged, well i don't like binging, but i had not done it in ages, i don't want to either i just want to lose weight, but i am caught i this trap atm, and the idea of me purging makes me do it, and make me binge.

My tummy hurts again really bad, i did it to myself this time, but i had no choice i am addicted to purging, my neck hurts, i need to go to the doctor because i need help, not with purging but i have a tummy problem i don't know what it is but it is getting worse every week, and now i am increasing the pain, but i can't stop

......Inside i am screeming!  
but i don't want to stop this because i want to lose weight, and i will, but i need help, i need my tummy back to normal (as in pain free).

I am not even bulimic or am i, i am ment to be recovered anorexic but i hate being this fat, but still i have proberm's. No one knows they think i am ok.

if only they knew, but i don't want anyone to.

Answer
Kimberley

It is in fact very common for recovering anorexics to develop another eating disorder.  Many may become binge-eaters, and a great number will possibly become bulimic.

You mention that you are a 'recovered anorexic', did you have any help during this recovery, or was it an attempt made by yourself?  If you did not receive professional input, such as therapy, that could be where the problem lies.  It is important when being treated for an eating disorder that the physical symptoms and eating habits are not just treated by themselves, but there is intensive therapy going on meanwhile.  Eating disorders tend to be linked with psychological issues, and there is usually reasons that you developed an eating disorder or that you were more susceptible to one, rather than this being a diet that got out of control.  If the underlying issues have not been dealt with during your recovery, you risk them resurfacing and causing more problems in the future.

You need to speak to someone about what you are doing and ask for some help soon.  Bulimia (if you are developing this) can be as deadly as anorexia, so it is important that it is treated as soon as possible.

I would recommend visiting your Dr soon to discuss the abdomen pain as this can be a sign of something wrong, and should not be ignored.  Eating disorders are reknown for causing a number of health problems, and pain is your body's way of telling you something is wrong!  GET IT CHECKED!!

Joanne