The doctor may use tests like X-rays and blood tests to check for anemia and look for toxins and other substances in the blood. The medical evaluation of pica suspected may include potential infection by anemia, intestine blockages, and possible toxic effects. Pica may cause some children to become aggressive because they cannot control their impulses due to nutritional deficiency. Some pica cravings can put your child at risk of seizures or other neurological issues. For example, a child may act hyperactive and become more impulsive. Pica can cause children to engage in disruptive behaviors. It also raises a child’s risk of becoming sick from chemicals that may be on these objects. 6- InfectionĬan increase the risk of infection from bacteria and viruses found in feces or garbage, for example. Not being able to digest food properly can lead to diarrhea. 4- UlcersĮating nonfood items can scrape and tear the lining of your child’s mouth, leading to ulcers. 3- NauseaĮating substances that aren’t food can cause nausea. This can lead to abdominal pain, vomiting, and constipation. 2- Intestine BlockagesĪ common pica-related injury is a blockage in the intestines. Your child may seem tired and listless if they are not getting the nutrients they need to function. Here is a list of common symptoms 1- Tiredness Symptoms of pica can vary based on the child’s age and on what the child is digesting. This can be why it is common in children with autism because they are often picky eaters, which can cause a lack of proper nutrition. Iron deficiency anemia or malnutrition are two of the most commonly cited reasons for pica in any child. Others suggest it may be related to obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD). Some experts believe that individuals with autism seek sensory stimulation, and pica is one outlet for this desire. There is no clear-cut answer to this question. Pica was once thought to be a symptom of pervasive developmental disorder (PDD) and Asperger’s syndrome but has been more recently recognized as psychologically-based eating behavior and is commonly found in children on the autism spectrum. – Swallowing items that the body can’t digest, such as coins or toys – Eating substances of no significant nutritional value like chalk, plastic, paper products (i.e., Styrofoam), pencil erasers, buttons – Eating cigarette ashes or burnt matches Young children that have been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder are often found to have pica.Įxamples of pica eating behaviors include: Pica eating disorder is a condition that causes a person to eat nonfood substances compulsively. In this article, you will learn what pica is, why your child might have developed this habit, and how you can help them overcome it.

While there is a lot of information on pica, it’s hard for parents to find reliable information about the causes of this behavior and how they can treat it. Such as eating dirt, paint or wood glue, etc.

Pica is a condition where children consume nonfood items of no nutritional value.

Pica definition biology