If your child might have eaten something harmful, get medical care right away or call Poison Control at (800) 222-1222.If your child is at risk for pica, or you see signs that worry you, talk to your doctor.If these treatments do not work, doctors can also prescribe medicines. Some kids with pica need help from a psychologist or other mental health professional. They may recommend childproof locks and high shelving to keep items out of reach. Depending on what you eat, pica can damage your teeth. For others, it can lead to eating dangerous or toxic items. For people who eat things like ice a common behavior for someone who is pregnant pica is harmless. For example, they can work with parents on ways to prevent kids from getting the non-food things they eat. Pica can have a wide range of effects depending on what non-food item(s) a person eats. order X-rays or other imaging tests to find out what the child ate or to look for bowel problems, such as a blockageĭoctors can help parents manage and stop pica-related behaviors.check for anemia or other nutrition problems.the child has risk factors for pica, such as a developmental disability.the behavior isn't normal for the child's age or developmental stage.How Is Pica Diagnosed?ĭoctors might think it's pica if a child eats non-food items and: But for people with developmental or mental health concerns, it can still be a problem later in life. So the behavior isn't usually considered a disorder unless a child is older than 2. It's normal for kids up to 2 years old to put things in their mouth. Most cases of pica happen in young children and pregnant women. Pica is often seen in kids living in poverty, or in those who've been abused or neglected. It may be diagnosed if you constantly eat nonfood items fIt might also be a sign that something in your body is out of balance. Low levels of nutrients like iron or zinc might trigger specific cravings. Non-food items might help give a feeling of fullness. mental health problems, like obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or schizophrenia.developmental problems, such as autism or intellectual disabilities.intestinal obstruction, from eating things that block the intestinesĭoctors don't know exactly what causes pica.intestinal infections, from eating soil or poop that has parasites or worms.constipation or diarrhea, from eating things the body can't digest (like hair).lead poisoning, from eating dirt or paint chips with lead.Health problems can happen in kids with pica, depending on what they eat. People with pica crave and eat non-food items such as: Sometimes they eat things that can lead to health problems. But kids with pica (PIE-kuh) go beyond that. Young kids often put non-food items (like grass or toys) in their mouths because they're curious about the world around them. Always consult your personal healthcare provider.Pica is an eating disorder in which a person eats things not usually considered food. The information provided through this site should not be used to diagnose or treat a health problem or disease, and is not a substitute for professional care. The information on is for informational and entertainment purposes only, and should not be considered medical advice. Your health-care provider also will provide essential emotional support and discuss in detail the potential risks associated with pica. They may want to check for any potential vitamin and mineral deficiencies. What’s the treatment for pica? First and foremost, it is very important to not feel ashamed and let your midwife or doctor know if you think you may have developed pica. What are the dangers of pica? The dangers of pica for Mom and Baby depends on the amount and type of substance consumed. Why do some women develop pica? We do not know exactly why these craving occur, but one theory exists that it may develop from a zinc or iron deficiency in the mother or the mother strongly desires a certain texture in her mouth. Pica may, in fact, be accepted and encouraged in some cultures. Women will crave substances such as coffee grounds, baking soda, dirt, soap, ice, ash, baby powder or erasers. So the behavior isnt usually considered a disorder unless a child is older than 2. Its normal for kids up to 2 years old to put things in their mouth. Pica in pregnancy usually develops in the first trimester. Pica is often seen in kids living in poverty, or in those whove been abused or neglected. What is pica? Pica disorder was first described by Hippocrates in 400 B.C. This practice of craving and purposefully consuming nonfood items is known as pica. I have had patients crave eggs or fruit, while others must have peanut butter and chocolate at least once a day! However, some women have a very strong urge to ingest non-food items such as chalk or soil. The body undergoes so many critical changes during pregnancy and new food cravings are just one of those many changes.
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