Bulimia and swallowing: cause for concern.
OBJECTIVE
To determine whether there is evidence of a relationship between bulimia and abnormalities in swallowing function.


METHODS
Literature review across a variety of professional areas concerning the physiological effects of bulimia on oropharyngeal swallow structures and function.


RESULTS
Investigations of bulimic subjects have identified abnormalities in the oral cavity and oropharynx including dental erosion, changes in taste, tissue manifestations, and potential motility disorders that could impact swallowing function.


CONCLUSIONS
While there is cause for concern regarding the effects of repeated self-induced vomiting behavior in bulimic subjects on swallowing function, more research is needed.
Mendell
D A
DA
Department of Communication Sciences and Disorders, Northwestern University, Evanston, Illinois 60208, USA.
Logemann
J A
JA
D002032:Bulimia / Q000150:complications*; D003680:Deglutition Disorders / Q000209:etiology* / Q000473:pathology; D005769:Gastrointestinal Motility / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D009055:Mouth / Q000473:pathology; D009061:Mouth Mucosa / Q000473:pathology*; D009960:Oropharynx / Q000473:pathology; D012307:Risk Factors; D014077:Tooth Erosion / Q000209:etiology