Why is it dangerous to have bulimia – binge and purge?
Vomiting and laxative abuse disturb the body’s salt and fluid balance, often producing a potassium deficiency that compounds the disturbances in heart function, increases the likelihood of developing myasthenia and may produce kidney damage. Vomiting also causes dental problems, since stomach acid erodes the enamel and makes the teeth more vulnerable to bacterial invasion. Brushing your teeth after vomiting actually increases dental damage, but rinsing your mouth with a fluoride solution after vomiting will limit the erosion of your teeth. Those who have bulimia also run a greater risk of developing cavities, due to the vomiting and decreased salivary gland activity. The dental damage can lead to extensive and costly dental restoration. Finally, the salivary glands swell up if one binges and vomits, leading to a mumps-like appearance.
