Many stereotypes and stigmas surround the word “bulimia.” This serious eating disorder can cause long-term problems for both men and women. Advancements in health care have led to the development of some of the best bulimia treatments ever. However, spreading awareness about bulimia side effects is important in order to prevent this disorder.
About Bulimia
Formally called bulimia nervosa, this eating disorder involves a destructive pattern of bingeing and purging. These terms mean that people eat a lot of food and then force themselves to vomit up the food. Their goal is to prevent weight gain.
However, vomiting isn’t the only way that people with bulimia eliminate the food that they eat. They might also use diuretics or laxatives. In some cases, they obsessively exercise to control their weight, too.
Since people with bulimia fear weight gain, they could be of normal weight. As a result, it can be difficult for others around them to notice the problem. Instead, loved ones may notice that they exercise a lot, restrict what they eat, or have poor self-esteem.
A distorted self-image is often the culprit, so they believe that they weigh too much when they don’t. In order to overcome this disorder, they must seek help from bulimia treatment centers.
Long-Term Bulimia Side Effects
Bulimia causes many damaging physical, mental, social, and financial effects. These effects can lead to long-term problems.
Firstly, self-induced vomiting takes a toll on teeth and the digestive system. Vomit contains a lot of acid, which erodes enamel and can lead to gum disease and sensitive teeth. Regular vomiting can tear or rupture the esophagus and damage the intestines. Also, the blood vessels in the eyes could burst.
Secondly, the overuse of laxatives or diuretics can cause dehydration, which makes bowel movements difficult. Over time, dehydration can lead to abnormal blood pressure, kidney damage or failure, and electrolyte imbalance.
Cardiovascular problems from an electrolyte imbalance are another long-term bulimia side effects. In severe cases, the heart becomes so weak that it fails. In addition, dehydration can lead to hair loss, brittle nails, and scaly or rough skin.
Thirdly, nutritional deficiencies from purging can cause an imbalance in hormone levels. This effect may interfere with menstrual cycles, which prevents the release of eggs and pregnancy. Women who are pregnant and have bulimic behaviors may cause complications for their babies as well.
Fourthly, people with bulimia can develop a variety of other behavioral and mental health diseases. Some common ones include obsessive-compulsive disorder, depression, and anxiety. In some cases, they abuse drugs, such as cocaine, to control their weight, which can lead to addiction.
Finally, bulimia can cause long-term financial and relationship damage. In serious situations, people perform so poorly or call in sick so often that they lose their jobs. This effect can strain relationships and other aspects of their lives.
The longer people put off going to eating disorder treatment centers, the worse these effects become. However, it’s never too late to get help for bulimia.
Get Treatment for Bulimia Today
Do you or someone you love need bulimia treatment? A mental health or rehab center can provide a range of treatments that address every need, including:
- Nutrition counseling
- Medication management
- Cognitive behavioral therapy
- Family counseling
- Group therapy
- Holistic care
Don’t let yourself or a loved one suffer from bulimia any longer. Get help at a quality treatment center now to prevent life-threatening bulimia side effects.
