Yes, bulimia can harm the stomach. Bulimia nervosa is a serious eating disorder that is characterized by episodes of binge eating followed by purging behaviors, such as self-induced vomiting, misuse of laxatives, and extreme exercise. Over time, these behaviors can cause serious damage to the stomach and other organs.
The acid that is created by vomiting can wear away at the lining of the esophagus, leading to inflammation and scarring of the tissue. This can cause difficulty swallowing, chest pain, and even bleeding. In addition, the repeated vomiting can lead to an electrolyte imbalance, which can cause the heart to beat irregularly or even stop.
The misuse of laxatives can also lead to significant damage to the stomach. Laxatives are meant to be used to treat constipation, but when taken in large amounts, they can cause intestinal cramping and dehydration. This can lead to dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and electrolyte imbalances can lead to heart problems and even death.
Finally, extreme exercise can also be damaging to the stomach. People with bulimia often exercise excessively to burn off calories and fight the urge to binge. However, the strain of excessive exercise can cause significant damage to the stomach muscles and can even lead to gastrointestinal bleeding.
In conclusion, bulimia can cause significant damage to the stomach and other organs. It is important to seek treatment for bulimia as soon as possible in order to avoid these serious complications.