The dangers of bulimia are not always understood by bulimic people.  Bulimia is an eating disorder in which people eat large amounts of food (binge) then throw up (purge) in order to avoid weight gain.  They may also use laxatives to help move food through their digestive systems faster so less of it is absorbed by their systems in order to avoid weight gain.  Some people with bulimia abuse diet pills as well as laxatives.  They may also exercise compulsively.

Most bulimic people are women, but about 10% of people with the disorder are men.  Most bulimics are diagnosed in their teens or twenties, though children as young as ten have been diagnosed with the disorder and it is sometimes diagnosed in older people as well.

Dangers of Bulimia

There are many dangers of bulimia.  Serious medical problems can result from the condition.  Without treatment, it can even result in death.

Bulimia can cause intestinal problems such as diarrhea and constipation.  The acid content of vomit damages the esophagus.  It also damages the tooth enamel, causing the teeth to take on a clear appearance.  It can cause stomach ulcers and sores inside the mouth.  It can even cause the stomach to rupture.

Dehydration, vitamin deficiencies, and low blood pressure can lead to kidney problems and damage.  Liver damage may also occur.

Bulimia causes dehydration, anemia, and low levels of sodium, potassium, and magnesium in the body.  It causes hypotension (low blood pressure) and a slow or irregular heartbeat.  Over time, it weakens the heart muscle and can lead to heart failure.

Blood vessels in the eyes may break from excessive vomiting.  This may interfere with vision.

Overall muscle weakness, lethargy, and fatigue may occur.  Bulimic people may lack the energy for day-to-day activities.

It can cause hormonal imbalances leading to an irregular or absent menstrual period in women.  Over time, it can cause infertility.

There are also psychological dangers of bulimia.  While bulimia may be caused by feelings of depression, shame, anxiety, and low self-esteem, these feelings can also result from bulimia.  It can become a vicious cycle.  Bulimic people tend to be obsessed with their weight and appearance to begin with, but the longer the bulimic behavior continues, the stronger that obsession becomes.  People with bulimia may become clinically depressed or even suicidal.

Treating Bulimia

There is hope for bulimic people.  Despite the many dangers of bulimia, many of these problems are reversible with treatment. 

Treatment for bulimia must begin with treatment for the medical problems caused by the condition.  Any chemical imbalances must be corrected.  Heart conditions must be stabilized.  In some cases, the damage may be permanent, however.  For instance, kidney damage may not be reversible even with treatment.

A dietician is involved in the treatment program to develop a healthy eating plan.  The bulimic person is educated about healthy eating and about the importance of maintaining a healthy weight.  He or she is also educated about the risks of bulimia.  Education is an important part of the treatment process.

Mental health treatment is another important component of the treatment program. People with bulimia need to learn new ways of dealing with stress and other feelings.   In addition, bulimics may suffer from clinical depression or anxiety disorders and may require medication for these. 

People with bulimia may hesitate to seek treatment because they don’t understand the seriousness of their condition or because they are ashamed of their condition.  However, it is critical that they seek treatment.  It is very difficult for a person to stop binging and purging without professional help.