Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by a destructive pattern of binge-eating followed by compensating with certain behaviors to obsessively control weight, according to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI).
Two types of bulimia exist: purging and non-purging. Binging involves a rapid consumption of excessive amounts of food without the ability to stop. Following a binge episode, purging-type bulimics feel overwhelmed with guilt and either self-induce vomit or abuse laxatives, diuretics and enemas. Non-purging types engage in fasting or excessive exercise to control their weight. Both types of bulimia can produce long-term effects.
Gastrointestinal Effects
Bulimia causes numerous long-term effects on gastrointestinal system organs. Frequent purging brings up highly acidic gastric juices from the stomach that come in contact with the esophagus, throat and mouth. The acid wears away tooth enamel, causing discoloration, hot and cold sensitivity, gum disease and tooth decay. The lining of the mouth, throat, esophagus and stomach become damaged, leading to ulcer formations. Gastric reflux also causes hoarseness and inflammation of the throat.
According to the National Women's Health Information Center, excessive binging can rupture the stomach while excessive purging can rupture the esophagus. Misuse and abuse of laxatives or enemas negatively affects the intestines, causing constipation, bowel movement irregularity and long-term dependency on these medications to maintain movement of the bowels.
Systemic Effects
Bulimia affects all parts of the body and may lead to serious life-threatening complications, including death. Constantly purging and using excessive laxatives or diuretics carries the risk of dehydration and electrolyte imbalance, specifically when it comes to potassium. According to HelpGuide, low levels of potassium lead to weakness, fatigue, altered thinking, irregular heartbeats and heart failure, which may cause sudden death. Kidney failure can also result from chronic low levels of potassium.
Bulimia also shifts the hormonal balance, leading to irregular or absent menstrual periods and decreased sexual interest. Increased pressure in the face from purging leads to broken blood vessels of the eyes, as well as swollen parotid glands, causing the appearance of puffy cheeks. Medline Plus also includes inflammation of the pancreas as a long-term effect.
Mental Health Effects
Other mental health conditions, such as depression, can occur alongside bulimia nervosa. Besides physiological effects, the psychological effects are just as negative. According to NAMI, bulimics feel ashamed of their behavior, which results in anxiety, low self-esteem and depressed mood. These effects may lead to social withdrawal or changes in personal relationships. The Mayo Clinic states that other bulimia complications include drug or alcohol abuse.
