[Somatic and biochemical complications in bulimia].

Bulimia is an eating disorder characterized by binge eating followed by purging, i.e. self-induced vomiting, abuse of cathartic or diuretic drugs, increased activity or periods of restrictive dieting. Studies show that persons with bulimia are prone to a number of medical complications as a result of binge-eating, vomiting and drug abuse. Vomiting is the most harmful in terms of medical risk, and also the most common source of complications. Both vomiting and purging lead to loss of body fluids and electrolytes, often resulting in hypokalemia. Vomiting also leads to sore throats and dental problems such as destruction of enamel. Gastric dilatation is the only complication directly associated with binge-eating. Harmless symptoms, such as abdominal pain, diarrhoea, constipation and neuromuscular symptoms are common. This article discusses the pathophysiology behind the complications and their treatment.