Known as the “binge-purge” syndrome in which the person feels compelled to consume large quantities of food in a relatively short period of time, and feels out of control. The binges are usually followed by purging, in the form of self-induced vomiting, or abuse of laxatives, diet pills, and/or diuretics, excessive exercise, or fasting. People with bulimia may be of normal weight, underweight, or slightly above average body weight. Specific medical complications arising from bulimia include tooth and gum decay caused by frequent vomiting of stomach acid, gastrointestinal disturbances, swollen glands, scarring on the back of the hand or fingers, dehydration, dry or cracked lips, dizziness and fainting, low potassium levels, kidney impairment, esophageal hemorrhaging, electrolyte imbalances, cognitive disturbances, cardiac irregularities, and in the most severe cases, death.