Define the Medical Complications of Bulimia Nervosa?
The medical complications of bulimia nervosa range from fairly benign, transient symptoms, such as fatigue, bloating and constipation, to chronic or life-threatening conditions, including Hyperkalemia (low potassium levels), cathartic colon, impaired renal function and cardiac arrest. Serious medical complications of bulimia nervosa are uncommon, but patients may suffer from dental erosion, swollen salivary glands, oral and band trauma, gastrointestinal irritation and electrolyte imbalances (especially of potassium, calcium, sodium and hydrogen chloride). Laboratory tests reveal low potassium levels (hypokalaemia) because of vomiting and laxative use. Hormonal changes are less prominent than in anorexia nervosa and may be absent altogether. Complications include aspiration, oesophageal or gastric rupture, or inflammation of pancreas.