Kales is one of thousands of physicians who is trying to teach people about the dangers of eating disorders. Nationally-known stars are also sharing stories of their battles with the diseases to help others. Jane Fonda and Princess Diana now speak openly about their battles with bulimia. The side effects of these disorders can even cause death. Singer Karen Carpenter died after suffering from both anorexia and bulimia.
Anorexics can literally starve themselves to death.
If the disorder goes untreated, they eventualy do not consume enough calories to survive, which can cause their kidneys and heart to fail. The lack of nutrition also causes their bones to become fragile, and many recovering anorexics suffer from osteoporosis. Many others also have complications during childbirth, suffer from dry skin and hair and are always cold, even on the hottest of days, Kales said. The National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Associated Disorders reported a 9 percent mortality rate for anorexics. Rapid weight loss and the preoccupation with body weight are typical signs of anorexia.