ANATOMY // How The Body Is Affected
The neurological implications of bulimia are founded in the brain. While bulimia is different from anorexia, both eating disorders are affected by the same anatomical structures. Research has found that there is an overall decrease in brain volume, known as pseudo atrophy, amongst patients with eating disorders (Hussein, M). Another anatomical feature of people with bulimia are enlarged CSF spaces, which continue to stay this way even if eating habits are regulated and overall bodily health is restored (Hussein, M).
If bulimia persists, other areas of the body that suffer can range in intensity. This variable lies within how extensive the person’s purging habits are, the frequency of their eat-binge-purge cycles, and the length of time that the disease has gone on (E-Medicine Health). For example, consistent vomiting leads to an excess of acid in the mouth; this can lead to tooth decay, swollen gums, sensitivity, and loss of enamel (NEDA). Esophageal damage and inflammation is also common, as the frequent acid can destroy the person’s inner lining (Precision Nutrition). One of the most common conditions that bulimics deal with is osteoporosis, as their bones become extremely brittle and weak.
One of the largest problems that bulimics face is dehydration, as their bodies constantly have to readjust to the inconsistency of receiving nutrients (E-Medicine Health). By lacking in electrolytes and nutrients, their bodies can become severely impacted (NEDA). Kidney damage or failure, low blood pressure, and chest pains are some of the ways in which this problem will manifest itself. Vomiting and medicinal misuse can lead to fatigue, breathing difficulties, and frequent diarrhea (E-Medicine Health).
If bulimia persists, other areas of the body that suffer can range in intensity. This variable lies within how extensive the person’s purging habits are, the frequency of their eat-binge-purge cycles, and the length of time that the disease has gone on (E-Medicine Health). For example, consistent vomiting leads to an excess of acid in the mouth; this can lead to tooth decay, swollen gums, sensitivity, and loss of enamel (NEDA). Esophageal damage and inflammation is also common, as the frequent acid can destroy the person’s inner lining (Precision Nutrition). One of the most common conditions that bulimics deal with is osteoporosis, as their bones become extremely brittle and weak.
One of the largest problems that bulimics face is dehydration, as their bodies constantly have to readjust to the inconsistency of receiving nutrients (E-Medicine Health). By lacking in electrolytes and nutrients, their bodies can become severely impacted (NEDA). Kidney damage or failure, low blood pressure, and chest pains are some of the ways in which this problem will manifest itself. Vomiting and medicinal misuse can lead to fatigue, breathing difficulties, and frequent diarrhea (E-Medicine Health).