Eating disorders: The physical effects

Complications of induced vomiting

Teeth: Acid from the stomach contents can wear away the enamel covering the surface of the teeth, leading to eroding of the surfaces of the back of the teeth. Some people with eating disorders develop gum disease. These problems can lead to premature loss of teeth.

Gullet: Acid regurgitation can also inflame the gullet causing oesophagitis. The symptoms are of heartburn and chest pains, particularly with eating and drinking, limiting food intake even more. Severe and frequent vomiting can even lead to tears in the wall of the oesophagus and stomach, which can be life-threatening.

Salivary glands: The salivary glands can become enlarged and painful. This is a common complication of dehydration.

Pancreas: Inflammation of the pancreas leading to severe abdominal pain and vomiting is another dangerous complication.

Heart: Heart rhythm disturbances can be induced by lack of potassium in the body fluids.

Hands: Calluses on the back of the hands can be caused by rubbing on the teeth to induce vomiting.

What is the outlook?
About one in five people make a full recovery following treatment, but the same number remains severely ill. For the remainder the disorder persists but fluctuates in severity. About one in 20 people with anorexia die as a result of the problems outlined above or they may commit suicide.

Self-help groups

Eating Disorders Association
1st Floor, Wensum House
103 Prince of Wales Road
Norwich NR1 1DW
Helpline: 01603 621414
Youth Helpline: 01603 765050

Anorexia and Bulimia Nervosa Association
Women's Health Centre
Tottenham Town Hall
Approach Road
London N15 4RS
Tel: 020 8885 3936