Bulimia is an eating disorder that leads a person, typically female, to binge eat and then force the food from her body by intentionally vomiting and using laxatives. Some do this multiple times a day. This activity is detrimental to a person's health.
Glands and Blood Vessels
Repeated vomiting causes swelling of salivary glands, giving the face and neck a puffy look. It also results in broken blood vessels in the face and eyes.
Throat Damage
Chronic vomiting can cause damage to the throat by stomach acid, and can eventually create ruptures in the esophageal lining. Stomach acid can thin the esophagus, which may lead to throat cancer. Chronic vomiting also can result in acid reflux disorders, or chronic heartburn.
Nutrient Depletion
Vomiting and laxative use causes dehydration and loss of essential electrolytes such as potassium and sodium, along with vitamins and nutrients. This can result in dry skin, brittle nails, thinning hair and muscle aches and weakness.
Stomach Effects
Chronic vomiting can cause the stomach lining to weaken, allowing stomach acid to burn through the stomach wall and create life-threatening perforating ulcers.
Oral Damage
Stomach acid can eventually turn teeth yellow and mottled. It can cause cavities, enamel erosion, gum disease and mouth sores.
Ipecac Syrup
Using ipecac syrup to induce vomiting is very dangerous because the substance builds up in the body. It eventually can damage the heart and cause cardiac arrest.
Tags: Chronic vomiting, acid eventually, Chronic vomiting cause, vomiting cause