When someone with an eating disorder smells like vomit despite trying everything hygienic to get the smell out, it is likely due to frequent episodes of vomiting. Eating disorders, such as bulimia nervosa, involve recurrent episodes of binge eating followed by purging behaviors, which can include self-induced vomiting.
In these cases, the persistent smell of vomit can be challenging to eliminate because the stomach acid and partially digested food particles from the vomit can cling to the person's skin, hair, and clothing. Standard hygienic measures may not be sufficient to completely remove the odor.
There are several reasons why the smell lingers even after attempts at hygiene:
Stomach acid and enzymes: Vomit contains stomach acid and digestive enzymes, which have a strong and unpleasant odor. These components can be difficult to wash away completely.
Repeated episodes: For individuals with eating disorders, frequent episodes of vomiting can lead to the continuous presence of the smell.
Skin absorption: Some porous materials like clothing and certain types of hair can absorb the smell of vomit, making it challenging to remove.
Oral hygiene: The smell may also originate from the mouth due to the acidic and foul-smelling stomach contents coming in contact with the teeth and gums.
Dental issues: Regular vomiting can lead to dental problems, such as enamel erosion and bad breath.
Psychological factors: In some cases, the perception of the smell may become heightened due to psychological factors, which can make it seem more persistent than it actually is.
It's essential to remember that the lingering smell is just one aspect of the larger health issues faced by individuals with eating disorders. Eating disorders can have severe physical and psychological consequences and require professional help for treatment. If you or someone you know is struggling with an eating disorder, it's crucial to seek assistance from medical and mental health professionals who specialize in treating eating disorders.