People with an eating disorder that causes them to eat items that are not designated for eating.It is possible for a person with pica to eat innocuous items such as ice cubes or potentially dangerous things like dried paint flakes.An underlying cause of pica is a deficiency of vitamins and minerals that makes people crave nonfood things.It is most common in children, pregnant women and individuals with intellectual disabilities.It can be a way to cope.pica can have serious consequences, even though it is usually temporary.You can identify physical symptoms by looking at emotional signs.
Step 1: You can watch eating patterns.
A person with pica usually has a regular diet of food and non-food items.A person is present when they eat non-food items for at least a month.Keep a mental note or journal of your eating habits if you suspect you have pica.This can be used to identify patterns in consumption.There are some items a person withpica eats that include: Ice Chalk Soap or laundry starch Clay, dirt, or sand, Hair Cigarette butts or ashes, Paint, glue, plaster or chalk, Feces Talcum powder, and baking soda.
Step 2: Look for physical signs of pica.
People with pica eat items that are not appropriate for their age or cultural practices.Mild to severe symptoms can be caused by eating non-nutritious things.Constipation may be one of the causes of tooth loss.
Step 3: Consider any previous medical conditions.
If you suspect you have pica, think about your past visits to the doctor.A person with pica may be more susceptible to certain conditions than other people.If you have had one of the following health issues, you may havepica if you eat non-food items.
Step 4: The feces should be checked for nonfood items.
A lot of small children eat non-food items.If you suspect your child or someone you care for has pica, check the diaper or the toilet.Non-food items may include glass, stones, hair, matches, and coffee grounds.It may be difficult to find objects that are in the stomach such as ice, ashes, or soap.
Step 5: There are red flags forpica.
Like other eating disorders, pica can have both physical and behavioral symptoms.Some behaviors can indicate pica, especially when they are in conjunction with physical symptoms.Skipping meals makes excuses for not eating, leaving during meals to use the bathroom, and eating in secret.
Step 6: Negative feelings should be acknowledged.
Negative feelings are associated with eating disorders.It is possible to recognize pica if you acknowledge that you or another person has these feelings.Negative feelings that individuals with pica may have include: Confusion Anger Resentment Protective of your habit Fear Anxiety Depression
Step 7: The behavior should be put in context.
pica may be a part of everyday life in some cultures.Some religions and ethnic groups eat clay to treat issues in the stomach.If eating nonfood items is not part of your culture or is inappropriate for the person's age or stage of development, it may indicate pica.It's important to know that pica is common in people with intellectual disabilities.If a person with any of these conditions is showing signs of pica, talk to them about what they have been eating.You can get the answer by asking.If you notice any signs of pica in a person with developmental disabilities, seek medical attention.
Step 8: Know the risk factors.
People of any age and gender can be affected by pi.Some people may be more susceptible to it.The risk of developing pica may be mitigated by recognizing your risk factors.There are risk factors that include: hair pulling disorder, excoriation, and skin picking disorder.
Step 9: There are problems with pica.
People with pica may eat ice.Severe medical conditions and even death can result from eating non-food items constantly.Depression and anxiety, problems with growth and development, Social and relationship problems, Substance use disorders, and lead poisoning are some of the causes of pica infections.
Step 10: Seek medical help.
Seek medical care for your child if they consume a harmful substance.If you or someone you know is at risk for pica, it is important to see your doctor as soon as possible.It is possible for your healthcare provider to screen for lead poisoning and parasites.Children 2 years old or younger who live in locations where at least one third of the houses were built before 1950 should be screened for lead.It is possible to prevent more serious medical conditions by getting medical treatment for pica.It can be difficult to manage an eating disorder on your own.The best way to control your pica is with medical attention.Even if it's embarrassing, tell your doctor about your problem.Your doctor can use this to develop a treatment program for you.A doctor isn't there to judge, but to help you.Your doctor may suggest therapies to remove toxic substances from your body.Your doctor may suggest that you meet with a psychologist, psychiatrist, social worker, or dentist to treat underlying causes.