Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by binge eating episodes , in which the person consumes a large amount of food in a short period of time, usually in secret, and with a feeling of loss of control.

Those affected attempt to compensate for the effects of overeating through self-induced vomiting, laxative and diuretic abuse, fasting, or excessive exercise. Similar to anorexia nervosa, people with bulimia exhibit excessive concern about weight, body image, and shape, but without any control over their eating. It is often a more difficult disorder to detect, as those affected may be of normal weight, underweight, or overweight. Help is usually sought only when the problem is already advanced.