The Effects of Bulimia
People with bulimia have an eating disorder that causes them to
binge on food and then, usually, throw up the food during
binge-and-purge cycles. Some people may exercise excessively or
abuse diuretics or laxatives. Although there is no known cause
of bulimia, people who suffer from the disorder tend to be
perfectionists who strive to make others happy, and they may
also be stressed or depressed. Genetics and social messages also
contribute to bulimia's development.
One of the most marked effects of bulimia is on the teeth and
mouth. Frequent vomiting brings up stomach acid into the mouth,
eroding teeth's enamel. Cavities and gum infections are common
in people with bulimia. The stomach acid also irritates the
esophagus, producing heartburn, and the salivary glands, making
them swell.
Bulimia harms the entire body. People with bulimia also tend to
be constipated from laxative abuse and improper nutrition.
Bulimics typically eat high calorie, low nutritional value foods
like breads or ice cream. As a result, they may be
undernourished and have dry skin, hair, and nails. Bulimia
causes mineral and vitamin deficiencies and can lead to chronic
kidney problems, including kidney failure. Dehydration is also
common in people with bulimia. Undernourishment and dehydration
lower the body's electrolytes, causing an irregular heartbeat or
heart problems. The effects can be serious. When potassium drops
severely, it can cause the heart to stop, resulting in death.
Bulimia affects people's mental and emotional well-being. These
problems can come directly from bulimia, or bulimia may be a
response to the other problems. People with bulimia may be tired
and unable to perform at peak levels from the mental and
physical stress bulimia puts on the mind and body. Depression,
low self-esteem, and extreme perfectionism are common in people
with bulimia. Bulimia can cause tension with family and friends,
interrupting the lives of people with the disorder.
The most severe effect of bulimia is death. Ten percent of
people with bulimia eventually die from its effects, usually
from the electrolyte imbalance caused by dehydration.