In a single binge they can consume foods supplying 10,000 to 15,000 calories or more. Among the complications of binge-purge syndrome are dental disorders, body fluid disorders, and salivary gland problems. Dental abnormalities, such as sensitive teeth, dental decay and gum disease occur from the frequent vomiting. This is due to the high acid content of vomit, it eats away at the tooth enamel and sometimes teeth are lost as a result. Use of laxatives changes normal bowel patterns.
Diuretics can throw off a person's acid-base balance.
Self-induced vomiting can lead to swelling of salivary glands, electrolyte and mineral disturbances, and enamel erosion in teeth. Laxative abuse can lead to long lasting disruptions of normal bowel functioning. Complications such as tearing the esophagus, rupturing the stomach, and developing life-threatening irregularities of the heart rhythm may also result. The treatment requires a team of experienced clinicians. The primary goal of therapy for this syndrome is to establish a regular healthful eating pattern.