Pica is a condition in which a person desires or consumes nonfood substances with little nutritional value, such as paint chips or sand. Pica is classified as an eating disorder in most medical books. A person suffering from pica may consume seemingly innocuous products such as ice. Alternatively, they may consume potentially hazardous objects such as dried paint flakes or metal shards. The condition, in the latter situation, might have catastrophic implications that may lead to poisoning. This condition is more common in youngsters and pregnant women. It is typically just temporary. It can also happen to persons with intellectual limitations. For those with significant developmental problems, it is frequently more severe and long-lasting.
Pica patients consume nonfood things on a regular basis. To be classified as pica, the conduct must last at least one month. If you have pica, you may consume ice, soap, buttons, clay, hair, dirt, sand, cigarette ashes, paint, glue, and feces on a frequent basis. Pica is caused by a variety of factors. Pica may be caused by a lack of iron, zinc, or another nutrient in some situations. Anemia, typically caused by iron deficiency, may be the underlying cause of pica in pregnant women, for example. Pica may emerge as a coping technique in people with certain mental health problems, such as schizophrenia and obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Some people may even appreciate or crave the textures or flavors of nonfood objects. Eating clay is a common practice in various cultures. Geophagia is the name given to this type of pica. Diet and malnourishment can both lead to pica. In these cases, eating nonfood items may help you feel full.
Eating some nonfood substances can occasionally result in other dangerous illnesses such as poisoning, parasite infections, intestinal obstructions, and choking. Given the risk of medical consequences associated with pica, medical supervision is required throughout the treatment of the said eating disorder. Furthermore, close collaboration with a mental health team is an ideal way for the effective treatment of these complex cases. Your doctor would most likely start by addressing any issues you've developed as a result of ingesting nonfood items. If your doctor suspects that your pica is caused by dietary deficiencies, he or she may prescribe vitamin or mineral supplements. A psychiatric evaluation may also be ordered by your doctor to evaluate whether you have OCD or another mental health problem. They may recommend drugs, treatment, or both depending on your condition. Pica cannot be avoided in any manner. However, paying close attention to eating patterns and closely monitoring youngsters who are prone to put objects in their mouths may help detect the issue before complications will arise.
- PNFP Rowence Zorilla, RND
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