Bulimia: Physical Risks, What Happens, Exams and Tests
Physical Risks of Bulimia
Bulimia can have a number of serious physical risks, including:
* Dehydration: Bulimia can cause dehydration because of the excessive vomiting and purging. Dehydration can lead to a number of problems, including dizziness, fatigue, and constipation.
* Electrolyte imbalances: Bulimia can also cause electrolyte imbalances, which can lead to a number of problems, including muscle cramps, heart problems, and seizures.
* Tooth decay: Bulimia can cause tooth decay because of the stomach acid that is released during vomiting. Stomach acid can erode tooth enamel, leading to cavities and other dental problems.
* Esophageal damage: Bulimia can also damage the esophagus, which is the tube that connects the mouth to the stomach. Esophageal damage can cause pain, difficulty swallowing, and bleeding.
* Gastric rupture: Bulimia can also cause gastric rupture, which is a tear in the stomach. Gastric rupture is a serious medical condition that can be fatal.
* Menstrual irregularities: Bulimia can also cause menstrual irregularities, including amenorrhea (the absence of menstrual periods). Amenorrhea can be a sign of malnutrition and can lead to fertility problems.
* Osteoporosis: Bulimia can also lead to osteoporosis, which is a condition that causes bones to become weak and brittle. Osteoporosis is a serious medical condition that can increase the risk of fractures.
What Happens During a Bulimia Episode
A bulimia episode typically involves the following steps:
1. The person binges on food, often eating large amounts of food in a short period of time.
2. The person then purges the food by vomiting, taking laxatives, or exercising excessively.
3. The person may feel guilty or ashamed after the binge-purge episode and may try to hide it from others.
Exams and Tests for Bulimia
A doctor may recommend the following exams and tests to diagnose bulimia:
* Physical exam: The doctor will check the person's vital signs, weight, and height. The doctor may also look for signs of dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and tooth decay.
* Blood tests: Blood tests can check for electrolyte imbalances, anemia, and other medical problems.
* Urine tests: Urine tests can check for ketones, which are a sign of dehydration.
* Electrocardiogram (ECG): An ECG can check for heart problems.
* Upper endoscopy: An upper endoscopy is a procedure in which a thin, flexible tube with a camera on the end is inserted into the esophagus, stomach, and duodenum. This procedure can check for esophageal damage, gastric rupture, and other problems.
Treatment for Bulimia
Treatment for bulimia typically involves a combination of psychotherapy, medication, and nutritional counseling. Psychotherapy can help the person to understand the causes of their bulimia and to develop healthier coping mechanisms. Medication can help to reduce the symptoms of bulimia, such as anxiety and depression. Nutritional counseling can help the person to learn how to eat a healthy diet and to maintain a healthy weight.