The main characteristics of the eating disorder, Bulimia Nervosa, include the following:
- Repetitive binge eating
- Compensatory behavior to prevent weight gain
- Exaggerated preoccupation with body shape and weight.
How does Bulimia cause Arrhythmia?
Frequent purging (self induced vomiting) can cause dehydration. This leads to weak muscles and extreme fatigue. It can also throw the electrolytes out of balance and put strain on the heart. This can cause an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia), and in some severe cases, a weakened heart muscle and heart failure.
How Bulimia harms your body:
Like anorexia, bulimia is unhealthy for the body. The strong acids in stomach contents eat away at the layer of protective tooth enamel, making teeth much more vulnerable to decay. Laxative use can cause chronic gastrointestinal problems. At its most destructive, bulimic behavior can lead to problems with heart function. Rarely, it can cause death.
