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Essay / Bulimia Nervosa Essay - 535
Bulimia Nervosa is an eating disorder characterized by compulsively eating large amounts of food and then going to extreme lengths to avoid gaining weight. It affects both men and women of all ages, but it is more predominant in young women. A person with bulimia is exposed to serious risks, the most dangerous being dehydration due to frequent vomiting, diuretics or laxatives. These people often develop electrolyte imbalances, the most common being low potassium levels. Low potassium levels can lead to kidney failure, irregular heart rate and even death. Other side effects can be constant sore throat, dizziness, broken blood vessels in the eyes, bloating, tooth decay, acid reflux, ulcers, and many more. Bulimia does not have a single cause but many contributing factors. Body image and low self-esteem are the main causes, but these individuals usually have a history of abuse or trauma, an appearance-focused profession, or are experiencing major life changes. These people generally have difficulty managing stress in a context ...