Bulimia Nervosa is an eating disorder that involves regularly engaging in uncontrollable episodes of bingeing and purging. If left untreated, the disorder can lead to serious physical and mental health complications, including, but not limited to, digestive problems, electrolyte imbalances, and depression.
Physical Complications
The physical complications associated with bulimia nervosa are a result of the bingeing and purging behaviors commonly associated with the disorder. These behaviors can cause a variety of physical problems, such as dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, and gastrointestinal distress.
Dehydration: Bingeing and purging can both lead to dehydration, which is a condition that occurs when the body does not have enough fluids. Symptoms of dehydration include dark-colored urine, fatigue, dry skin, and headaches.
Electrolyte Imbalances: Bingeing and purging can also lead to electrolyte imbalances. Electrolytes are minerals in the body that help maintain the balance of water and other substances in the body. When electrolyte levels are not balanced, it can cause fatigue, confusion, muscle weakness, and heart rhythm disturbances.
Gastrointestinal Distress: Bingeing and purging can also cause gastrointestinal distress. This is due to the fact that the body is not able to process the large amounts of food that are consumed during binging episodes. This can lead to nausea, vomiting, and abdominal pain.
Mental Health Complications
Bulimia nervosa can also lead to a variety of mental health complications. These complications can include depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive disorder, and substance abuse.
Depression: People with bulimia nervosa are at a higher risk of developing depression due to the negative thoughts and feelings associated with the disorder. Depressive symptoms can include difficulty concentrating, fatigue, and a lack of interest in activities that were once enjoyable.
Anxiety: Anxiety is another common mental health complication associated with bulimia nervosa. Anxiety can manifest in different ways, such as feeling tense or having difficulty sleeping.
Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder: People with bulimia nervosa may also develop obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). OCD is a disorder characterized by intrusive thoughts and behaviors.
Substance Abuse: People with bulimia nervosa may also turn to substance abuse in an attempt to cope with their disorder. Substance abuse can include the misuse of alcohol, drugs, or both.
Conclusion
If left untreated, bulimia nervosa can lead to a variety of physical and mental health complications. These complications can range from dehydration and electrolyte imbalances to depression, anxiety, and substance abuse. It is important to seek treatment for bulimia nervosa in order to avoid these serious complications.