Bulimia Nervosa is an eating disorder that compels people to essentially “undo” a binge in order to maintain a certain body shape or weight. Contrary to popular belief, purging (vomiting) is just one of the behaviors exhibited by people suffering from bulimia. In many cases, it also includes misusing laxatives and over-exercising.
Symptoms of bulimia nervosa can include (but are not limited to):
- Chronically inflamed throat
- Chronically sore throat
- Electrolyte imbalance (too low or too high levels of sodium, calcium, potassium and other minerals) which can lead to stroke or heart attack
- Severe dehydration (due to purging fluids)
- Swollen salivary glands in the neck and jaw area
- Worn tooth enamel
- Increasingly sensitive and decaying teeth (due to exposure to stomach acid from purging)
- Acid reflux disorder and other gastrointestinal problems
- Intestinal distress and irritation (due to misuse of laxatives)
