Bulimia is a complex psychological disorder that can affect a person's emotional and physical well-being dramatically. Characterized by episodes of consuming food, often exorbitant amounts (known as binging), then purging--attempting to rid the body of ingested food--bulimia may cause damage to teeth, throat, the digestive system, a person's emotional well-being and the heart. The sooner a person attains help for an eating disorder, the better. If you or a loved one has bulimia, seek guidance from a qualified professional promptly.
Dental Problems
Individuals with bulimia who purge repeatedly by vomiting are likely to experience serious dental problems. According to an excerpt from the book, "A Parent's Guide to Eating Disorders," by Marcia Herrin, EdD, MPH, RD and Nancy Matsumoto, those with bulimia frequently develop extreme sensitivity of the teeth to hot and cold, followed by increased cavities in the teeth. In addition, the teeth may chip and become ragged-looking, depending upon the method used to induce vomiting. Long-term bulimia often results in erosion of tooth enamel, making for a dull, less shiny appearance. The enamel also may turn yellow, and teeth may become thin, nearly translucent looking. Herrin and Matsumoto suggest that this is an extremely painful condition that may result in death of the tooth.
If you or your child has bulimia, dental care is crucial. Those who are struggling with ending their purging behaviors may require dental trays or protective coating until they are able to recover. Notify your child's dentist of your child's bulimic behaviors for best results so that he or she can monitor tooth health in regards to the disorder.
Chronic Constipation
People with long-term bulimia may develop chronic, or long-lasting, digestive irregularities, such as constipation. According to Herin and Matsumoto, bulimics who abuse laxatives for an extended time period may become dependent on them in order to have bowel movement. The colon can lose its muscle tone as well, resulting in severe, chronic constipation and, potentially, uncomfortable feelings of fullness and pain. Chronic constipation can lead to impaction, in which a large, hard mass of stool becomes lodged in the digestive system--a painful condition that, in severe cases, may require medical attention. Herrin and Matsumoto also suggest that adult bulimic patients have been known to lose bowel function permanently, leading them to depend on using a colostomy bag, a prosthetic pouch inserted surgically that collects waste.
Damaged Esophagus
People who experience bulimia long-term may experience severe damage to the esophagus--the tube in the throat that moves food to the stomach. According to the National Health Information Center, vomit contains acid that can inflame or damage the esophagus. In severe cases, the esophagus may tear or rupture. This is a serious complication that demands medical attention. Bloody vomit and severe soreness and swelling in the throat and back of the mouth are indications of tearing.
People with bulimia assume that purging rids the body of calories and prevents weight gain. However, much of the loss is fluid-related. Once she learns that purging is an ineffective weight management tool and emotional issues that trigger binging and purging episodes are addressed, recovery and healing are possible. Complications such as esophagus damage may be permanent or temporary, depending upon severity and the stability of a person's recovery.
