Bulimia (cont.)
What medical complications and long-term effects can bulimia have?
The medical complications that result from bulimia are generally due to
continual bingeing and purging. The type of purging behavior used can have
varied effects on different body systems.
Self-induced vomiting can result in
oral complications. Repeated exposure to acidic gastric contents can erode tooth enamel, increase
dental cavities, and create a sensitivity to hot or cold food.
Swelling and soreness in the salivary glands (such as the parotid glands in the
cheeks) from repeated vomiting can also be a concern.
The esophagus and the
colon are the areas
most affected by bulimic behaviors. Repeated vomiting can result in ulcers,
ruptures, or strictures of the esophagus. Acid that backs up from the stomach
(reflux) can also become a problem.
As with anorexia nervosa
and other eating disorders, irregular menstrual periods or amenorrhea (the absence of menstrual periods) may result from
malnutrition or weight fluctuations associated with bulimia.
There are a number
of intestinal and systemic complications. The misuse of diuretics can create an
abnormal buildup of fluid (edema). Continual use of laxatives can result in
dependency on them and can cause the normal elimination process to become
dysfunctional. Loss of normal colonic function can
necessitate surgical intervention in some cases. Restoration of normal bowel
function may take weeks
after the misuse has been discontinued. The misuse of diuretics and laxatives
combined can place the bulimic at great risk for electrolyte imbalance, which
can have life-threatening consequences. The complex physical and chemical
processes involved in the maintenance of life can be disrupted with serious
consequences by the continuation of bulimic and purging behaviors. Additional
complications can affect an unborn fetus of a practicing
bulimic or the infant of an active bulimic mother. Psychological problems can escalate to serious
levels if untreated and interfere with the restoration of normal body functions.
Next: How is bulimia treated? »
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