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Risk & Complications of Bulimia



A number of factors such as genetic influences, family history, emotional disorders, severe stress or trauma, unhealthy relationships and societal or peer pressure may increase the risks of bulimia.

Untreated, bulimia health risks may turn fatal and damage vital organ function. Psychologically, the fear and guilt of over eating and purging may also trigger other mental conditions such as depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorders and suicidal tendencies.

Risk factors of bulimia may seem more prominent among the following groups:

  • More women than men face eating disorders such as bulimia or anorexia.
  • Age is another dominant risk factor for bulimia. Young adults bombarded with distorted body images through media and peer group may face eating disorders
  • Family influences may include a family history of the disease or even non-supportive parents or siblings who tend to be overtly critical of potential patients’ weight or body issues.
  • Obsession over diet and fitness may often lead to bulimia as it consists of the perfect environment to lose control over eating habits.
  • Constant encouragement to lose weight and approval over weight loss may also trigger an individual’s need to lose more weight. Emotionally immature, less secure individuals may face eating disorders to win approval over weight loss. The pressure on athletes and people in the media industry to lose weight may also trigger bulimia.

Bulimia complications may affect vital organs such as heart and lung and digestive organs such as kidney, liver and intestines.

  • Irregular heartbeat may turn into a fatal seizure or heart attack.
  • Individuals may suffer from severe gum and tooth decay or infections that can turn life threatening
  • Substance abuse is common amongst individuals suffering from bulimia. In the binge purge cycle, patients may use laxatives, diuretics and enemas in an attempt to purge calories. As the misuse accelerates, individuals may suffer from life threatening dehydration and extreme malnutrition.
  • Substance abuse may also include drug or alcohol abuse.
  • Irregular periods or loss of periods in women with bulimia may also lead to hormonal problems including inability to reproduce.
  • Digestive problems may include indigestion or lack of bowel movement due to erratic portions or unhealthy foods.
  • In severe cases of bulimia, internal organ damage, overdose of drugs or even suicidal thoughts may lead to fatalities.

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References
  1. Bulimia nervosa in overweight and normal-weight women Masheb, Robin / White, Marney A., Comprehensive Psychiatry, 53 (2), p.181-186, Feb 2012
  2. A Review Of The Definitions Of Outcome Used In The Treatment Of Bulimia Nervosa Williams, Sarah E. / Watts, Thomas K.O. / Wade, Tracey D., Clinical Psychology Review, In Press, Accepted Manuscript,Feb 2012