bingeeatingpurging

Bingeeatingpurging refers to patterns of eating that combine binge eating with purging or compensatory behaviors. It is not a formal DSM-5 diagnosis by itself, but describes symptom clusters seen in bulimia nervosa and, less consistently, in cases of binge-eating disorder where purging behaviors are present. The term emphasizes the co-occurrence of episodes of large-quantity eating and attempts to remove calories afterward.

Binge eating involves consuming unusually large amounts of food in a discrete period, often with a sense of loss of control, rapid eating, and eating until uncomfortably full or when not hungry. Purging behaviors may include self-induced vomiting, laxative or diuretic misuse, enemas, or excessive physical exercise. Distress about weight and body shape is common. Not all individuals with binge eating purge; bulimia nervosa specifically requires recurrent binge-purge episodes, whereas binge-eating disorder traditionally involves binge eating without regular purging.

Causes and risk factors are multifactorial, including genetic predisposition, neurobiological factors, psychological traits such as perfectionism or impulsivity, dieting history, stress, trauma, and sociocultural pressures related to body image. The condition can affect all genders and ages, though prevalence is higher in certain groups.

Medical complications can include electrolyte imbalances, dehydration, gastrointestinal problems, dental erosion, esophagitis, pancreatitis, and in some cases cardiac issues. Diagnosis relies on clinical evaluation, self-reports, and medical assessment to distinguish bulimia nervosa, binge-eating disorder, and other specified feeding or eating disorders.

Treatment is typically multidisciplinary, combining psychotherapy (notably cognitive-behavioral therapy and interpersonal psychotherapy), nutritional rehabilitation, and medical monitoring. Some medications, such as fluoxetine for bulimia and lisdexamfetamine for binge-eating disorder, may be used as part of a broader treatment plan. Early treatment improves outcomes and reduces relapse risk. See also eating disorders such as bulimia nervosa and binge-eating disorder.