Knowledge Base of Eating Disorders

Our knowledge base is a resource dedicated to providing information to individuals and their families about the signs, effects, causes, and treatment options for bulimia nervosa, as well as other eating disorders and co-occurring conditions.


Bulimia Nervosa Awareness

Bulimia nervosa (BN) is a specific type of eating disorder revolving around cycles of binging and purging. Affecting people of all genders, BN has a prevalence of approximately 0.5-1.5%. The disorder can have grave effects on someone’s health, but thankfully, a majority of people who seek treatment for bulimia nervosa are able to recover.


  • Russell's sign

    Effects of Bulimia on the Hands & Knuckles

    Bulimia nervosa (BN) is an eating disorder that can cause significant wear on the hands and the knuckles specifically, resulting in something called Russell’s sign (also referred to as “bulimia hands”). This occurs primarily because of the incisors repeatedly grinding against the skin when a person induces vomiting.

  • Woman searching on her computer

    How to Choose a Bulimia Treatment Program/Center 

    Choosing a bulimia nervosa treatment program, or a program to help with other eating disorders like anorexia nervosa (AN) or binge eating disorder (BED), can feel like an overwhelming process.

  • Alternative holistic therapy

    Alternative and Holistic Care for Bulimia

    While many evidence-based treatments are often used to help people struggling with bulimia nervosa (BN), some types of alternative and holistic therapy may also be able to help.

  • Patient speaking with a doctor

    Bulimia Relapse: Signs and Prevention

    Eating disorder relapse is common, whether you’re recovering from bulimia or any other eating disorder. While it may be a setback, it doesn’t mean you’re a failure. Each time you revert to disordered eating behavior, think of it as an opportunity to learn something you can apply if you feel yourself struggling again.

  • Patient in doctor's office about mouth/jaw

    Bulimia Jaw Pain and Swelling

    You’ve probably seen photos of the so-called “bulimia jaw.” Before-and-after snaps can be striking, particularly if they show people with cheeks puffed up by repeated vomiting.

  • Body image

    Symptoms of Bulimia Nervosa | Body Image Negativity

    Body image is an important aspect of how we see ourselves and can contribute significantly to our mental and emotional well-being.

Research & Data

Explore the many original research and data collection projects we have conducted

Eating Disorders

Eating disorders are one of the most dangerous types of mental health disorder, responsible for an estimated 10,200 deaths every year. There are a number of different types of eating disorders, which all impact people in different ways.


Treatment Information

The most effective treatment for bulimia nervosa is the one that restores your physical and mental health while keeping you safe. Almost half of all people with bulimia seek out treatment, and all of them should get individualized care. 


  • Woman searching on her computer

    How to Choose a Bulimia Treatment Program/Center 

    Choosing a bulimia nervosa treatment program, or a program to help with other eating disorders like anorexia nervosa (AN) or binge eating disorder (BED), can feel like an overwhelming process.

  • Alternative holistic therapy

    Alternative and Holistic Care for Bulimia

    While many evidence-based treatments are often used to help people struggling with bulimia nervosa (BN), some types of alternative and holistic therapy may also be able to help.

  • Interpersonal psychotherapy

    Interpersonal Psychotherapy for Bulimia Nervosa

    Interpersonal psychotherapy (IPT) is a form of talk therapy that has been shown to be potentially beneficial in helping people with eating disorders, including bulimia nervosa (BN).

  • How to help someone with an eating disorder

    How to Help Someone Who Has an Eating Disorder 

    Watching a friend, family member, or loved one struggle with an eating disorder can be incredibly difficult. Though you want to help, you may be unsure how to help someone with an eating disorder.

  • Bulimia Nervosa Treatment

    Bulimia nervosa (BN) is a dangerous mental health disorder that requires appropriate care. And luckily, there are a number of therapies and treatments that can help.

  • Evidence-Based Eating Disorder Treatment

    Thanks to several interlocking social, emotional, and biological factors that maintain and sustain them, eating disorders are often one of the most complex types of mental health conditions to diagnose and properly treat.