Bulimia Nervosa-A Case Report

Bulimia nervosa is a serious psychiatric disorder that is often underdiagnosed, particularly among middle-aged individuals and in non-Western populations. This case report describes a 46-year-old Indian woman presenting with classical features of bulimia nervosa, including recurrent episodes of binge eating followed by self-induced vomiting. The patient also exhibited functional decline, depressive symptoms, and comorbid type 2 diabetes mellitus. Clinical improvement was observed with fluoxetine, low-dose antipsychotic therapy, and cognitive behavioural therapy. The case is notable for its late onset, chronicity, and rarity in the Indian context. Recent literature supports increasing recognition of eating disorders in midlife, especially in women, where hormonal transitions and psychosocial stressors may act as triggers. This case underscores the importance of considering bulimia nervosa in the differential diagnosis of eating disturbances in older adults. Early recognition and a multidisciplinary treatment approach are crucial for recovery and prevention of long-term complications.