Expert: Joanne - 4/9/2007

Question
can you please explain how swollen glands is a symptom of bulimia. is it permanent? if not, how long does it last?

Answer
Kristen,

It is reckoned that repeated vomiting causes the salivary glands to swell in your face giving a 'chipmunk' appearance.  This may be caused by nerve stimulation of the gland as bulimia may damage this somehow (unfortunately I don't full understand the possible explanations they give for this!), either that, or the gland just gets bigger in order to make more saliva during episodes of vomiting.  I don't think there is a definitive answer for your question - I reckon from the scientific articles I have just read, there is still debate as to why this happens!

As for it being permanent, it shouldn't be.  They should decrease in size after vomiting ceases, and by that I don't mean just not making yourself sick once, but actually having the bulimia treated and stopping purging indefinitely!

I hope that this helps, and please feel free to come back with any other questions!

Holly