Bulimia Nervosa Health Risks & Consequences
Bulimia Nervosa Health Risks Span the Entire Body
There are many serious health risks associated with bulimia. Bingeing and purging, particularly recurrent and/or chronic episodes, have profound negative effects on the body’s systems.
Specific health risks of bulimia include:
- Cardiac complications (irregular heartbeat and heart failure stemming from electrolyte imbalances such as potassium, sodium, and chloride)
- Dehydration
- Edema (stemming from periods of purging cessation)
- Ulcers, pancreatitis
- Esophageal inflammation and/rupture, acid reflux (resulting from vomiting)
- "Bulimia teeth" or tooth decay and staining (caused by stomach acids/frequent vomiting)
- Digestive irregularity (chronic irregular bowel movements and constipation, sometimes stemming from laxative abuse)
- Fatigue and muscle weakness (from over-exercise or electrolyte imbalances)
- Risks associated with diabulimia (manipulating insulin for weight loss in Type 1 Diabetics), including organ damage and peripheral neuropathy
Recovery from Bulimia is Possible With Treatment
Bulimia side-effects and health risks can be serious and long-lasting — even life-threatening. Help is available at Eating Recovery Center — at specialized eating disorder clinics around the nation.
Bulimia treatment includes both medical and psychiatric intervention as well as the support of a specially-trained dietitian to ensure that you are safely transitioning to healthy, life-sustaining nourishment. And lastly, intensive therapy is needed so that you can learn and adopt new, effective coping behaviors.
If you or someone you know is suffering from bulimia, please call 877-825-8584 to schedule a free consultation with an Eating Recovery Center Masters-level clinician. All calls are confidential.
