Low or irregular heart rate
Bulimia nervosa can cause a person's heart rate to become critically slow (a condition known as bradycardia). The heart may also speed up abnormally when a person moves from lying down to standing up. A very slow or sudden change in heart rate makes it unsafe for someone to be out of hospital. Some people with bulimia nervosa also develop an abnormal heart rhythm due to changes in the body's chemicals caused by purging. They would need to be monitored in a hospital.
Low blood pressure
People with bulimia nervosa may have low blood pressure or may experience a drop in their blood pressure when they move from lying down to standing up. This puts them at risk of fainting.
Weak bones
Lack of
calcium or vitamin D over a long period can cause bones to become weaker. This leaves someone with bulimia nervosa at risk of developing
osteoporosis or bone fractures in the future.
Mood changes
When the brain is starved of nutrients, a person with bulimia nervosa will experience more frequent changes in their mood and be less able to concentrate and think clearly.
Reduced hormone levels
With continued purging of foods containing fat, the body may not produce normal levels of hormones. In teenage girls, this can lead to abnormal or missed periods.
Younger children who experience bulimia nervosa may not go through puberty normally or may stop growing.
Thinning hair
Lack of vitamins and minerals can cause hair to become thinner or fall out.
Tooth decay
Because of repeated vomiting, acid from the stomach may start to wear away tooth enamel, leading to tooth decay.
Low electrolyte levels
Electrolytes include chemicals such as potassium, sodium and magnesium. These are needed to regulate the body's balance of fluids and salts. Purging can significantly disturb this balance, which can cause serious heart rhythm irregularities.
Problems with the digestive system
Frequent vomiting may lead to acid reflux from the stomach and inflammation or tears of the esophagus (gut). Repeated laxative use can also lead to constipation.
