Bulimia and swallowing: Cause for concern

Objective: To determine whether there is evidence of a relationship between bulimia and abnormalities in swallowing function. Method: Literature revie w across a variety of professional areas concerning the physiological effec ts of bulimia on oropharyngeal swallow structures and function. Results: In vestigations of bulimic subjects have identified abnormalities in the oral cavity and oropharynx including dental erosion, changes in taste, tissue ma nifestations, and potential motility disorders that could impact swallowing function. Discussion: While there is cause for concern regarding the effec ts of repeated self-induced vomiting behavior in bulimic subjects on swallo wing function, more research is needed. (C) 2001 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.