Hair and nails may grow brittle. Similarly, skin may dry, yellow, and develop a covering of soft hair called lanugo. Mild anemia, swollen joints, reduced muscle mass, and light-headedness also commonly occur. Severe cases also lead to brittle bones that easily break as a result of calcium loss. Heart failure is a risk for those who use drugs to stimulate vomiting, bowel movements, or urination.
Starvation can also damage the heart and brain.
Bulimia nervosa Acid in vomit can wear down the outer layer of the teeth, inflame the esophagus, and enlarge the glands near the cheeks. Binge eating can also cause the stomach to rupture, and purging can result in heart failure as a result of the loss of vital minerals, such as potassium. Anorexia nervosa Assuring physical health, including restoring weight, is the first goal of treatment. This may require hospitalization. After a person s physical condition has been stabilized, treatment usually involves individual psychotherapy that may include psychoanalytic approaches, family therapy, and, later, supportive group therapy.