
However, it is important that the underlying cause of parotid hypertrophy is addressed, otherwise, the issue will only worsen with time. Parotid hypertrophy is not, in itself, dangerous and will usually disappear once the vomiting has ceased and the individual in question has returned to a regular diet. Parotid hypertrophy, or swelling of the parotid glands, can be a distressing and disheartening symptom for individuals suffering from bulimia, as they can often misinterpret the swelling as further evidence of weight gain or unattractiveness. Consistent vomiting ultimately results in swelling of the area between the jawbone and the neck, resulting in puffy, chipmunk-like cheeks. As people with bulimia nervosa tend to self-induce vomiting multiple times a day, the parotid gland will typically become swollen from overexertion. When a person chooses to induce vomiting, the parotid glands, the pair of which are located in the back of your mouth, will produce extra saliva in order to protect the esophagus and the mouth from stomach acid. Two of the most common methods of purging employed by bulimic individuals are self-induced vomiting and laxative abuse. One of these side-effects is bulimia cheeks, also known as chipmunk cheeks.

In addition to causing serious internal problems, long-term bulimia nervosa can also lead to the development of a wide range of externally apparent physical symptoms.

Bulimia nervosa is a type of eating disorder characterized by recurrent binging and purging, a destructive cycle that often leaves bulimic individuals completely depleted of essential vitamins and minerals.
