Bulimia nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by a repeated cycle of feeling out of control when eating an unusually large amount of food (binge eating) and using behaviors to prevent weight gain from the binge. These compensatory behaviors include self-vomiting, excessive exercising, restricting food intake, and using laxatives, ipecac syrup, enemas or diuretics. Individuals with bulimia also base their self-worth on weight or body shape. Chronic bulimia has several health consequences.
Cardiovascular Problems
Individuals with bulimia may develop chemical imbalances of bodily fluids (electrolyte imbalances), including sodium and potassium levels. Electrolytes are essential for proper body function, so an imbalance may cause abnormal heartbeats, heart failure and kidney failure. Low blood pressure may develop, resulting in fainting or loss of consciousness.
Gastrointestinal Problems
Dental problems may develop, including tooth decay, tooth enamel erosion and gum disease, caused by stomach acid in the mouth from vomiting. In addition, those with bulimia often have swollen salivary glands that make their faces appear puffy. Vomiting may cause the esophagus to become inflamed or torn, causing bloody vomit. In rare cases, the esophagus may rupture, which warrants emergency medical attention. Constipation is common as a result of dehydration, irregular eating habits or use of laxatives, enemas or diuretics. Permanent colon damage and long-term bowel movement problems may arise from laxative abuse.
Skin Problems
Individuals with bulimia often have dry skin from water lost by their compensatory behaviors. This dehydration may lead to fatigue, fainting or kidney damage. Another skin problem is calluses or scarring on fingers or on the back of hands, which is caused by the teeth pressing onto the skin when vomiting. The calluses or scarring can become permanent. Some individuals with bulimia engage in self-harm behaviors, such as cutting or burning themselves with cigarettes, which can cause infection or leave permanent scars.
Psychological Problems
Many individuals with bulimia have co-occurring psychiatric disorders. Depression is the most common. Those with bulimia may also abuse alcohol or drugs or suffer from an anxiety disorder, such as a phobia or generalized anxiety. These co-occurring mental conditions can become worse without treatment.
Help for Bulimia and Its Health Consequences
Given the serious medical problems that result from bulimia, getting the right treatment is crucial. If you or a loved one is struggling with bulimia or another eating disorder, please contact an eating disorders clinic or specialist for appropriate diagnosis and treatment. The National Eating Disorders Association has a toll-free hotline (800-931-2237) to help you find eating disorders treatment.
References
- "Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (4th ed. Text Revision)"; American Psychiatric Association; 2002.
- "Journal of the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry"; Psychiatric Comorbidity in Teatment-Seeking Anorexics and Bulimics; David Herzog, Martin Keller, Natalie Sacks, Christine Yeh, and Philip Lavore; September 1992.
- "Medical Complications of Psychiatric Illnesses"; Claire Pomeroy, James Mitchell, James Roerig, and Scott Crow; 2002.
