One reason people are vulnerable to developing an eating disorder has to do with gaining approval of their families and wanting to be attractive to friends. Like so much else related to eating disorders, these nonphysical aspects backfire, too.
As painful as the medical consequences of an eating disorder are, the psychological agony can be just as painful, believing that weight loss will improve self-esteem, self-confidence, and happiness. In fact, persistent undereating, binge eating, and purging have the opposite effect. Eating-disordered individuals typically struggle with one or more of the following complications: depression, low self-esteem, shame and guilt, mood swings, and perfectionism.
For all the dangerous and often unplanned effects of disorders, the techniques themselves are dangerous. For instance, while bulimia doesn't lead to starvation in the same way as anorexia does, the processes it employs are very harmful. Although some people who have bulimia may look "healthier" than people who have anorexia, bingeing and purging create potentially serious physical problems in addition to depriving the body of nutrition. The hazards include damage to the teeth, throat, esophagus, and stomach, due to the effects of acid in the vomit.
More serious results may include stomach ruptures due to bingeing, and heart failure due to the loss of vital electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium, through purging. When emetics are used to induce vomiting, these effects are intensified; and the use of laxatives can lead to a dependence on them that makes regular bowel movements nearly impossible.
What is purging about? Purging is thought to control weight. But it can serve other "purposes." Purging may act as a release for negative emotions, like anger, and purgers may feel like they are ridding themselves of uncomfortable feelings. Some people get more relief from the purging behavior than from bingeing. It can be powerfully reinforcing. Some people believe it can protect them from weight gain, and free them from restricted eating. Even though it's potentially dangerous, it may give people a temporary sense of self-control. Types of purging include:
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