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Bulimia or bulimia nervosa is one of the most common eating disorders, and it is characterized by frequent binge eating followed by purging. 

That means someone with bulimia frequently consumes an amount of food that is larger than a healthy portion in a short period of time, followed by purging, which involves induced vomiting, taking laxatives or diuretics, or excessive exercising or fasting, with the idea that it makes up for binging.

Aside from binging and purging, bulimia can also manifest through other symptoms like feeling faint, having mood swings, irregular heartbeat, and a lot more.

(Photo : Gor Davtyan on Unsplash)

Short-Term Effects of Bulimia

Depending on the method, purging on its own can cause immediate side effects. Induced vomiting can result in an inflamed throat, making it difficult to swallow food. Laxatives can cause intestinal distress, while diuretics can cause dehydration.

Excessive exercise and fasting can both cause fatigue and mood swings, among other things. In any case, purging will most likely result in gastrointestinal problems.

Long-Term Effects

Some long-term effects include negatively impacting mental health, resulting in depression, anxiety, or obsessive-compulsive behaviors. Others are more physical manifestations like a disturbed digestive system characterized by blood in the vomit, acid reflux, diarrhea, and constipation. 

Some also experience low blood pressure, a weak pulse, and anemia. Other physical symptoms include unhealthy hair, skin, and nails, most likely caused by dehydration. In other cases, bulimia can cause a hormonal imbalance that negatively affects reproductive health.

While someone with bulimia can recover from the disorder, it is still possible to have some long-term effects, which may require some medication or other intensive procedures.