Ear, Nose and Throat Disorders Forum - Can Bulimia Cause Cancer of the Ear, Nose, or Throat?

Conditions and Diseases > Ear, Nose and Throat Disorders Forum > Can Bulimia Cause Cancer of the Ear, Nose, or Throat?

Bulimia is an eating disorder that affects people of all ages. But what are the characteristics of bulimia? And how do you know if you have it, or not?...

Q: Can Bulimia Cause Cancer of the Ear, Nose, or Throat?

asked by: DoctorQuestion on March 16th, 2006

Hello,
I have a tightness in my throat. When I swallow saliva I feel like it does not all go down, however, I have no problem swallowing food or drink. My throat is not sore, but lately I wake up and my sinuses feel very congested. I also have dull earaches. I have been going crazy for about two months with these symptoms, and I am terrified that I have some sort of cancer. I have seen my doctor twice but cannot receive more than 2 minutes of her time. I was bulimic for a few years; but I was able to beat it - that was about six months ago. I am worried that I have developed some sort of cancer because of the bulimia? What do my symptoms sound like to you? I have no pain in my esophagus, and I don't have heart burn. Please Help!

Replies(1)

Dr. Nikola Gjuzelov , MD

replied on April 5th, 2006

Ear, Nose & Throat Disorders Answer A657

Bulimia doesn`t seem likely that will cause cancer. Further, none of your symptoms indicate a possibility that you have cancer. Earaches can be caused by inflammation of the middle ear, as a complication of sinusitis. The sinuses are connected to the middle ears through the nasopharynx. A history of bulimia and your current cancer-phobia indicate possible psycho-emotional problems. You might consider seeking help from a trusted, mental health professional who can help you cope with life on life's terms.

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