Since bulimia nervosa most commonly begins in adolescence or early adulthood, developmental transitions like puberty may increase the risk of developing the disorder. 

Kalamazoo College

Several factors have been found to be correlated with either the onset or continuation of bulimia nervosa:

- Impulsivity
- Developmental transitions
- Idealization of thinness
- Weight and body image concerns
- Childhood trauma
- Comorbid psychiatric conditions

Bulimia Nervosa Predisposing and Perpetuating Factors

Nitsch, A., Dlugosz, H., Gibson, D., & Mehler, P. S. (2021). Medical complications of bulimia nervosa. Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine, 88(6), 333-343.

Nitsch et al. (2021)

Many, an estimated 70% of, bulimia nervosa patients also suffer from other comorbid psychiatric disorders, namely mood disorders, anxiety disorder, substance use disorders, and personality disorders. 

Bulimia Nervosa and Comorbid Psychiatric Disorders

Bulimia Nervosa and Developmental Transitions

Complications can include:


• Swollen cheeks and salivary glands

• Mallory-Weiss syndrome

• Gastroesophageal reflux disease

• Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS)

• Constipation 

• Irregular heartbeat

• Dental enamel erosion

• Rectal prolapse

• Diabetes

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