Physical Complications From Bulimia

Continue from: The Physical Effects of Eating Disorders

Complications of induced vomiting

by Dr Lesley Hickin

Teeth: Acid from the stomach contents can wear away the enamel covering the surface of the teeth, leading to eroding of the surfaces of the back of the teeth. Some people with eating disorders develop gum disease. These problems can lead to premature loss of teeth.

Gullet: Acid regurgitation can also inflame the gullet causing oesophagitis. The symptoms are of heartburn and chest pains, particularly with eating and drinking, limiting food intake even more. Severe and frequent vomiting can even lead to tears in the wall of the oesophagus and stomach, which can be life-threatening.

Salivary glands: The salivary glands can become enlarged and painful. This is a common complication of dehydration.

Pancreas: Inflammation of the pancreas leading to severe abdominal pain and vomiting is another dangerous complication.

Heart: Heart rhythm disturbances can be induced by lack of potassium in the body fluids.

Hands: Calluses on the back of the hands can be caused by rubbing on the teeth to induce vomiting.

What is the outlook?
About one in five people make a full recovery following treatment, but the same number remains severely ill. For the remainder the disorder persists but fluctuates in severity. About one in 20 people with anorexia die as a result of the problems outlined above or they may commit suicide.

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