Health Risks of Bulimia Nervosa The consequences of eating disorders can be severe, with 1 in 10 cases leading to death from starvation, cardiac arrest or suicide. People who use drugs such as laxatives, ipecac, or diuretics to stimulate vomiting, bowel movements, and urination are particularly at risk. Dieting heavily between episodes of bulimia is also common and lead to the same health consequences as anorexia. The health consequences of bulimia include: Loss of vital minerals Metabolic disturbances Erosion and discoloration of tooth enamel from stomach acid Tooth decay, gum disease, mouth ulcers Inflamed glands resulting in a "chipmunk" or "moon" face Impaired mental functioning Lowered resistance to infections Severe muscle spasms Esophagus damage Permanent organ damage Heart attack High incidence of drug and alcohol addiction Co-occurrence of clinical depression, anxiety, obsessive compulsive disorder Learn more about bulimia nervosa Symptoms and Signs Treatment Issues       ABOUT THIS PROGRAM | UNDERSTANDING EATING DISORDERS WHEN IT'S SOMEONE YOU CARE ABOUT | TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE TO LEARN MORE | DISORDERED EATING MAIN PAGE BACK TO HEALTHWORKS | RETURN TO TV HOME PAGE © 1999 Prairie Public Broadcasting, Inc.