Purging Blood

[innocuous842]

I am 24 years old, and I have been bulimic since I was 16. This month makes it 8 years. I tried getting help, but it's not that easy when you don't have insurance that covers therapy. Anyways, the real reason I am here is to ask about my most recent situation. In March 2008, I purged and blood came out of my mouth and ran down my nose. I freaked out, but it hasn't stopped me. Well, it did stop me for a few weeks, but I'm still doing it.The other day (this October 2008), I purged, and I wasn't even really forcing it...and blood came out. Again, I freaked out. I'm living with my parents again, and my mother has enough to worry about, so I don't want to tell her what's going on. I mean if nothing is coming out anymore, and I'm not spitting blood, should I worry?

Thank you.

[Patricia Pitts, PhD]

Dear innocuous842,
No, it is not helpful to worry.  It is critical that you seek medical help for purging blood and nosebleeds.  Purging blood can mean a tear in your esophagus and even internal hemorrhaging.  At The Bella Vita whenever when we know a patient purged blood, we send them directly to urgent care or emergency.  The fact that you have been consistently purging blood is of greater concern.  The next time you see blood in your vomit, please seek immediate medical attention.
I understand you don’t want to add more to your mother’s concerns, yet this is something she needs to know.  She would want to know.  She could support you in getting the necessary medical attention.
To learn more about bulimia, visit the bella vita website.
Best,
Dr Patricia Pitts
The Bella Vita
Los Angeles, CA