How does bulimia affect pregnancy?

2019-10-24

How does bulimia affect pregnancy?

In a new study, pregnant women who currently are experiencing symptoms of bulimia are more likely to have complications, including miscarriage, early delivery, diabetes, and postpartum depression, compared to those who had bulimia in the past.

What electrolyte imbalance does bulimia cause?

The typical electrolyte abnormalities associated with bulimia are hypokalemia and metabolic acidosis.

Does bulimia have electrolyte imbalance?

Electrolyte imbalances are typically common in those with bulimia. Up to 49% of individuals with severe symptomatology of bulimia have imbalances such as sodium and potassium [1]. Those who purge are also at risk for hypokalemia, metabolic alkalosis, and hypochloremia.

What happens when a pregnant woman purges?

For example, with repeated binging and purging, severe electrolyte abnormalities may result or heart impediments that may put additional stress or pressure on a woman’s body. The combination of medical complications and nutritional deficiencies can increase a woman’s chance of: Preterm labor.

How can I stop purging during pregnancy?

Remedies for diarrhea during pregnancy

  1. Stay well hydrated. Watery, loose bowel movements remove a lot of fluid from your body.
  2. Eat bland foods. Try to stick to eating bland foods.
  3. Certain food groups can make diarrhea worse.
  4. Consider your medication.
  5. Add probiotics to your diet.
  6. Give it time.
  7. See a doctor.

Can you get pregnant after bulimia?

Having an eating disorder, such as anorexia or bulimia, can make it more difficult to conceive. Unfortunately, patients can still experience fertility issues, even after receiving treatment for an eating disorder.

How does bulimia cause dehydration?

Disorders in which patients purge or starve themselves not only deprive the body of much needed food but rob it of water, resulting in dehydration.

Why does hypokalemia occur in bulimia?

Rates of renal potassium secretion are further increased in the presence of an elevated aldosterone level secondary to volume contraction, causing worsening hypokalemia.

Does bulimia cause dehydration?

Frequent purging can cause dehydration. This leads to weak muscles and extreme fatigue. It can also throw your electrolytes out of balance and put strain on your heart. This can cause an irregular heartbeat (arrhythmia), and in some severe cases, a weakened heart muscle and heart failure.

What can a pregnant woman take to stop purging?

Remedies for diarrhea during pregnancy

  • Stay well hydrated. Watery, loose bowel movements remove a lot of fluid from your body.
  • Eat bland foods. Try to stick to eating bland foods.
  • Certain food groups can make diarrhea worse.
  • Consider your medication.
  • Add probiotics to your diet.
  • Give it time.
  • See a doctor.