Medical Consequences of Eating Disorders
Eating Disorders are potentially life-threatening illnesses that impact a person’s physical and psychological health. The earlier a person seeks professional help, the greater chance that person has in achieving recovery.
The following is an overview of possible complications and does not include all possible health issues that may arise as a result of an eating disorder.
Consequences of Starving:
*Abnormally slow heart rate and low blood pressure due to changes in the heart muscle brought on by starvation. The risk for heart failure increases as a person’s heart rate and blood pressure decrease.
*Cardiovascular problems include a smaller and weaker heart, heart arrhythmias, elevated blood cholesterol, Acrocyanosis (a blue/purple coloring of toes and fingers).
*Cognitive changes brought on by starvation include decreased concentration, attention and memory. Brain mass can be reduced.
*Slowing of metabolic rate as body conserves energy during starvation
*Loss of muscle as body breaks down muscle to provide energy and protein
*Osteoporosis- bone thinning due to inadequate nutrition and amenorrhea
*Amenorrhea - loss of menstrual cycle due to decreased production of estrogen. Low estrogen prevents proper absorption of calcium.
*Dehydration (can lead to renal failure and death)
*Hypoglycemia (low blood sugar) leading to fatigue, irritability, weakness, mental confusion, coma and possibly death
*Constipation and delayed gastric emptying
*Changes in skin and hair – dry skin, yellow skin, hair loss, Lanugo (growth of fine hair on body)
*Liver breakdown
*Anemia (low red blood cell count) and Leukopenia (low white blood cell count)
Consequences of Vomiting:
*Electrolyte Imbalance - Electrolytes (such as potassium and chloride) are needed for the normal functioning of nerve and muscle cells. Loss of these elements can be extremely dangerous and may lead to muscle weakness and cramping, heart problems and sudden death.
*Fluid Imbalance – Vomiting can lead to dehydration and rebound fluid retention.
*Tears in the Esophagus (the tube that connects the mouth with the stomach) lead to hematemesis/blood in vomit and to potentially life-threatening bleeding.
*Acid reflux- esophagus becomes inflamed from stomach acid
*Dental Problems- erosion, loss of enamel, cavities, gum disease
*Swollen Parotid Glands- appearance of “chipmunk cheeks”
Consequences of Laxative Abuse:
*Dependence- Large intestine may stop functioning on its own
*Electrolyte and Fluid Imbalance, Dehydration, Rebound Fluid Retention
*Rectal Bleeding
*Malabsorption of nutrients, loss of nutrients
*Megacolon/enlarged dysfunctional colon that must be surgically removed, resulting in a colostomy bag
Consequences of Diet Pill Abuse:
* Side effects of Phenylpropanolamine (PPA) include anxiety, agitation, dizziness and high blood pressure.
Consequences of Diuretic Abuse:
*Electrolyte and Fluid Imbalance, Dehydration, Rebound Fluid Retention
Consequences of Bingeing:
*In rare cases, stomach expansion due to bingeing may lead to rupture and death.
Consequences of Excessive Exercise:
* Orthopedic injury including fractures and tendonitis
* Amenorrhea leading to decreased bone density
* Heart arrhythmias and cardiac arrest
* Hypoglycemia
* Weakened immune system leading to increased susceptibility to infection
* Sleep disturbances
