Physical symtoms/health risks

The physical symptoms of purging disorder will include all those of bulimia nervosa associated with purging, including:

•Abrasions, blisters or cuts on the back of the hand and knuckles caused by the teeth during self induced vomiting.

•Oral subjection to gastric contents including acids can erode tooth enamel and weaken the teeth, continuous vomiting will cause loss of teeth. Cavities occur along with sensitivity to hot and cold food.

•Individuals who tend to vomit or take laxatives/diuretics are susceptible to an electrolyte imbalance. This can have life threatening consequences. Electrolytes are responsible for conducting electricity and are related to heart function being as the heart requires an electric impulse to beat!

•A balance between water and electrolytes is essential. Electrolytes can be depleted through sweat (as a result of exercise usually) or in urine, which may be induced by taking diuretics. Without replenishing electrolyte levels or if they are

Oxygen binds with the iron aspect of red blood cells (Haem part), and is transported around the body to working tissues. As a result of iron deficiency, less oxygen is able to be transported with each beat of the heart, resulting in a demand for the heart to work harder. Sufferers often feel lethargic and fatigued in general even if they have not endured any exercise. A suppressed immune system along with Anaemia is suspected although not clinically proven.

•Swelling in the face is common among purging disorder sufferers along with broken blood vessels in the eyes.

•Stomach pains and sore throat occur regularly as well as a pale complexion.

•Dehydration is a danger of purging disorder and can sometimes be detrimental to the individual’s health. Vomiting and laxative abuse removes unsafe amounts of fluid from the body. Individuals are likely to experience muscle spasms and ‘pins and needles’ sensation as a results of this.

•Kidney function is often inhibited in sufferers; this is due to chronically low levels of potassium, low levels of potassium (less than 2.5) can also stop the heart as it is related to electrolyte balance.

•Fine hair grows on the stomach, back, arms and back of the hands. Hair loss at the head is however common.

•DANGERS OF IPECAC SYRUM!! This medicine is used to induce vomiting and can certainly be deadly. It is built up in the body over time and clogs arteries; this ultimately leads to a cardiac arrest. The very much loved singer, Karen carpenter who was known for her severe anorexia, died of a heart attack induced by Ipecac abuse.

•Swelling and soreness in the parotid glands of the cheek is likely among purging individuals.

•Amenorrhea and irregular periods are very common; this is caused by malnutrition and weight fluctuations.

•Diuretic and laxative abuse causes an abnormal build up of fluid causing one to feel bloated. Constant abuse results in the body’s dependency on laxatives.

diminished at a greater rate than they are replaced, can lead to a cardiac arrest (heart attack) or cardiac arrhythmia (less effective pumping of the heart can cause individual to black out).

•Anaemia is a likely condition for people with purging disorder as well as bulimia and anorexia patients, it’s due to a level of malnutrition. Anaemia is basically a lack of iron. Iron plays an essential role in red blood cell (haemoglobin) function.