Understanding Bulimia Nervosa: Symptoms & Effects

Bulimia is an eating disorder characterized by intentional vomiting after eating to limit how many calories the body absorbs. Bulimia is often accompanied by several common symptoms.

Breath

• Since bulimia involves forcing the body to vomit bulimia, may cause foul-smelling breath. The vomit may also cause damage to the teeth and gums.

Fatigue

• Throwing up meals results in fewer calories being absorbed into the body. Since the body relies on calories from food for energy, bulimia can lead to fatigue.

Dehydration

• Bulimia forces a large amount of liquid out of the stomach along with food. This can severely limit the body's water intake, leading to dehydration.

Psychological Effects

• Bulimia can lead to several emotional symptoms such as anxiety, depression and abnormal eating habits. The affected person may also be obsessive about weight or work out constantly.

Periods

• In women, bulimia may lead to irregular periods or ceasing to have periods due to lack of proper nutrition being provided to the body.