What Are The Dangers Of Bulimia?
Bulimia is a serious eating disorder that is characterized by recurrent episodes of rapid food consumption, often in large quantities, followed by overwhelming guilt that leads to purging. Purging can be in the form of self-induced vomiting, or through laxative use. The dangers associated with bulimia are numerous, and all can be quite serious. Below is a list of side effects that are quite common with this disorder.
Malnutrition: Malnutrition is quite common in people who suffer with eating disorders. This issue causes a lack of energy, a lack of protein, vitamin A, iron, and iodine, and can lead to very serious health risks such as: infections, heart attack, blindness, kidney failure, even death.
Dehydration: This is very common in people who are bulimic as the body is regularly depleted of fluids due to excessive vomiting and/or laxative abuse. Darkening of the urine, general weakness, and dizziness are common symptoms. If left untreated, dehydration can lead to kidney failure, seizures, brain damage, neurological disruptions, heart failure, or death.
Esophageal Damage: Tearing of the esophagus is readily found in people suffering with bulimia. This is due to self-induced vomiting bouts. Acid reflux can also occur and cause esophageal reflux, which results in stomach acids and enzymes flowing backward into the esophagus. The esophagus, larynx, and lungs can all become damaged and lead to cancer of the esophagus and voice box. Subsequent gastrointestinal problems such as bleeding and stomach erosion, perforation, or rupturing can also occur.
Low Blood Pressure: Also known as hypotension, is caused by a lowered body temperature, dehydration, and malnutrition. This can lead to heart problems such as arrhythmia, myocardial infarction, or shock.
Fluctuations In Blood Sugar Levels: Both high and low blood sugar levels can result from bulimia. Low blood sugar can be indicative of problems in the kidneys or liver and can lead to mental deterioration and other neurological problems. High blood sugar levels can lead to diabetes, liver and kidney failure, circulatory problems, and immune system issues.
Ketoacidosis: Ketoacidosis is a buildup of acids in the blood, also known as ketones, as a result of the body burning stored fat, rather than food sources, as a method of gaining energy. Excessive purging can cause this condition and if left untreated can lead to coma and death.
Bruised Or Callused Fingers: A result of self-inducing vomiting regularly.
Dryness: Dry hair, skin, brittle nails, and even hair loss is common amongst individuals suffering with bulimia. This is due to vitamin and mineral deficiencies, dehydration, and malnutrition.
Heart Problems: Poor circulation, slow or irregular heartbeat, arrhythmia, angina, and heart attack can all be attributed to eating disorders. These conditions can lead to heart failure, or sudden cardiac arrest, which can result in death.
Check out these reviews & popular articles below:
