Dysphagia is a medical term which refers to difficulty swallowing. 

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Bulimia nervosa patients may suffer from conjunctival hemorrhages and nose bleeds due to gagging and retching during self-induced vomiting. Furthermore, the acid in vomit may cause damage to the throat, contributing to hoarseness, coughing, dysphagia, and pharyngitis, although these symptoms can usually be treated simply by purging cessation, or through the use of proton pump inhibitors (PPIs). Sialadenosis occurs in over half of those who purge via self-induced vomiting, though it typically goes away on its own with continued cessation of purging behaviors.

Bulimia Nervosa Head/Ear/Nose/Throat Complications

Severe binge-eating can cause severe gastrointestinal distress. Although some severe complications are rare, more mild symptoms are common:

- Bloating
- Acid reflux
- Dysphagia
- Stomach distension
- Bezoars
- Gastric outlet obstruction
- Gastric perforation
- Gastric necrosis

Acute Binge Eating Disorder Complications

Nitsch, A., Dlugosz, H., Gibson, D., & Mehler, P. S. (2021). Medical complications of bulimia nervosa. Cleveland Clinic Journal of Medicine, 88(6), 333-343.

Medical Complications of Bulimia Nervosa

Sialosis or sialadenosis refers to the hypertrophy of the parotid and salivary glands. It often occurs in bulimia nervosa patients after several days of cessation of self-induced vomiting. Though it typically goes away with continued cessation, it can also be treated through sour foods to induce salivation, heating pads, NSAIDs, and sometimes pilocarpine if other treatments are ineffective. 

Sialosis (Sialadenosis)

Proton pump inhibitors, or PPIs, are medications that reduce the amount of acid produced by the stomach. They are commonly used to treat gastrointestinal and esophageal issues caused by excessive stomach acid. Some PPIs are available over-the-counter, while others require a prescription. Although side effects are generally mild and PPIs are considered safe, dangerous allergic reactions may rarely occur, and long-term use is associated with greater risk of magnesium deficiency, vitamin B12 deficiency, kidney disease, bone fractures, and Clostridioides difficile infection.

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)

Dysphagia

Subconjunctival hemorrhages refers to the bursting of blood vessels in the eye, often due to straining or injury but sometimes as a result of certain medications or medical conditions. Typically, they are asymptomatic and do not require medical treatment.

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