How long does it take before serious medical problems emerge?
This is a difficult question to answer definitively. Some individuals develop medical symptomatology soon after the eating disorder develops. Others do not face illness until many years into the disorder. Some never suffer profound or lasting medical consequences, however, the emotional damage is great for anyone who has an eating disorder. Some of the medical symptoms are loss of or irregular menses, which can lead to hormonal and reproductive problems; bone density loss due to severe weight loss; cardiac problems, which can lead to death; sodium and potassium deficiencies; chronic bloating and gas; and gastrointestinal disorders often brought on by vomiting or laxative abuse. Physicians must become part of the recovery process. The types of physicians most commonly consulted during treatment are internists, gastroenterologists, gynecologists, pediatricians and, sometimes, cardiologists. Dental care should also be given, particularly when dealing with a Bulimic individual due to tooth
