What is Bulimia?

Bulimia is a an eating disorder involving episodes of binge eating (rapid consumption of food), followed by episodes of purging, which can involve vomiting, abusing laxatives and/or diuretics, exercising compulsively and/or fasting. The bulimic may not be visibly underweight and may even be slightly overweight, It is usually found among females.

What are the signs?

• Eating uncontrollably followed by purging or fasting.
• Depression and feeling of shame.
• Swollen salivary glands.
• Dry mouth.
• Sore throut.
• Heartburn.
• Dry skin.
• Irregular menstrual periods.
• Weakness and exhaustion.
• Bloodshot eyes.
• Constipation

What are the medial and dental consequences?

• Enlarged salivary glands.
• Rampant caries.
• Enamel erusion and hypersensitivity.
• Burning sensation of the tongue.
• Dehydration.
• Damage to internal organs like liver and kidney.
• Irregular heartbeat, which can lead to cardiac arrest.

Treatment?

Psycotherapy, medication, and suppot group is the best approach to treat the disorder, hospitilization might be required to treat the medial complication associated with it, Dental treatment will include:

• Appropriate home care such as brushing and flossing at least twice a day.
• Dental Exam at least twice a year for a thorough cleaning and oral examination.
• Fluoride applications to prevent further erosion and decrease teeth sensitivity.
• Use of Artificial saliva to decrease dry mouth.
• Rinsing mouth with water immediately after vomiting.
• Restorative and esthetic treatment.
• Restorative and esthetic treatment.