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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, throw
up 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 who suffer 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 bulimia’s
development.
One of the most marked effects of bulimia is
on the teeth and mouth. Frequent vomiting brings up stomach
acid into the mouth, eroding teeth’s enamel. Cavities and
gum infections are common in people with bulimia. The stomach
acid also irritates the esophagus, producing heartburn, and
the salivary glands, making them swell.
Bulimia harms the entire body. People with bulimia
also tend to be constipated from laxative abuse and improper
nutrition. Bulimics typically eat high calorie, low nutritional
value foods like breads or ice cream. As a result, they may
be undernourished 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. Undernourishment and dehydration
lower the body’s electrolytes, causing an irregular heartbeat
or heart problems. The effects can be serious. When potassium
drops severely, it can cause the heart to stop, resulting
in death.
Bulimia affects people’s mental and emotional
well-being. These problems can come directly from bulimia,
or bulimia may be a response to the other problems. People
with bulimia may be tired and unable to perform at peak levels
from the mental and physical stress bulimia puts on the mind
and body. Depression, low self-esteem, and extreme perfectionism
are common in people with bulimia. Bulimia can cause tension
with family and friends, interrupting the lives of people
with the disorder.
The most severe effect of bulimia is death.
Ten percent of people with bulimia eventually die from its
effects, usually from the electrolyte imbalance caused by
dehydration.
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About the Author:
Thomas Morva
Bulimia
Info provides detailed information about the causes, symptoms,
and effects of bulimia; bulimia treatment and recovery; the
relationship between anorexia and bulimia; and information
about the “pro bulimia” viewpoint. Bulimia Info is affiliated
with Original
Content.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Thomas_Morva
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