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The effects of bulimia
People with bulimia have an eating disorder that causes them to binge on food and then usually vomit 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 suffering 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 the development of bulimia. One of the strongest effects of bulimia is on the teeth and mouth. Frequent vomiting brings stomach acid into the mouth, which causes tooth enamel...
The effects of bulimia
People with bulimia have an eating disorder that causes them to binge on food and then usually vomit 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 suffering 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 the development of bulimia.
One of the strongest effects of bulimia is on the teeth and mouth. Frequent vomiting brings stomach acid into the mouth, which destroys tooth enamel. Tooth decay and gum disease are common in people with bulimia nervosa. Stomach acid also irritates the esophagus, causing heartburn, and the salivary glands, causing them to swell.
Bulimia damages the entire body. People with bulimia are also prone to constipation due to laxative abuse and poor diet. Bulimics typically eat high-calorie foods with low nutritional value, such as bread or ice cream. As a result, they may be malnourished 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 nervosa. Malnutrition and dehydration lower the body's electrolytes, leading to irregular heartbeat or heart problems. The effects can be serious. If potassium falls sharply, it can cause the heart to stop and result in death.
Bulimia affects people's mental and emotional well-being. These problems may arise directly from bulimia, or bulimia may be a reaction to the other problems. People with bulimia may be tired and unable to perform at peak levels due to the mental and physical stress that bulimia places on the mind and body. Depression, low self-esteem, and extreme perfectionism are common in people with bulimia nervosa. Bulimia can cause tension with family and friends and disrupt the lives of people with the disorder.
The most serious effect of bulimia is death. Ten percent of people with bulimia eventually die as a result, usually from an electrolyte imbalance caused by dehydration.
Inspired by Thomas Morva