Expert: Joanne - 12/29/2008

Question
I know this may sound stupid but I am nerveous about my eyes. I have had anorexia/bulimia for 13 years (Im 24). I purge over 15 times a day, I am so afraid that I will increase the pressure in my eyes and loose my vision, or make my parotid glands explode. Im not joking, I am serisous because sometimes I feel like my eyes hurt, they are always dry and red, and my glands are painful and swollen on a regular basis. Hav eyou ever heard of anything crazy like this happening?

Answer
Maxine

Bulimics tend to find that their salivary glands will be sore and swollen on a regular basis.  If they are extremely sore, or very hot and tender to the touch, it may be worth getting it checked out by a doctor as you may have an infection in them.  Swelling of these glands will disappear with time after stopping purging.

You will also find that you may regularly burst blood vessels in your eyes due to the increased pressure, resulting in blood-shot eyes.  As for serious problems, I am not sure, that is something worth discussing with a doctor or optometrist.

Please talk to a doctor.  I can only imagine what damage purging 15 times a day is doing to your body.  I would seriously consider seeking professional help before your really damage your health, or even die from this!

Joanne