Bulimic with Kidney Pain

Dear Dr.Pitt,

I've been dealing with bulimia for a few years on and off, and usually its been "in check" and not out of control, up until a few months ago during an abusive relationship and hospitalization for an attempted suicide. Since then it's become completely out of my hands and I purge everything that goes in my mouth even if its only a cucumber or a glass of juice. I don't binge often, a few times a week maybe, and I abuse laxatives and diuretics quite a bit too. Once every couple weeks I'll fast for 3-4 days as well.

I'm extremely unhappy about my body and my lack of control. I've started to feel the effects of my behaviour on my body, like my heart fluttering erratically from time to time and always feeling like I'm going to faint when I stand up, with temporary blindness and pressure in my head. I'm always weak and miserable, and sometimes i get very nausiated for no apparent reason and vomit uncontrollably. Last week I went on a ride at an amusement park and blacked out. I also experience severe abdominal pain in my entire mid-section at various places (upper left quadrant etc).

My actual question is regarding pain in my mid-upper back that I've experienced a couple times in the past week that is severe and dibilitating, It is so extreme that I have trouble moving and breathing. I've had a kidney infection in the past and it feels quite similar, with the exception that it comes and goes. Any idea what this could be? My last kidney infection started the same way, sporatically coming and going and my family doctor evaluated me and said a kidney infection wouldnt come and go like that. The only difference was that it was more frequent, in a less amount of time. I should also note than I went out with my friends and had a lot to drink last night.

Thanks for you help!

[Patricia Pitts, PhD]

Dear Easterbells,

Since I am a psychologist and not a medical doctor, I am unable to address you question directly.  However, I am gravely concerned about your numerous medical symptoms.  Purging, laxative abuse and diuretic abuse can cause electrolyte imbalances.  Kidney infections and kidney damage can occur with potassium deficiencies.  

I would urge you to see your medical doctor to address all your medical concerns.

Best,

Dr Patricia Pitts
The Bella Vita
Los Angeles, CA
www.thebellavita.com