Limit observance of behaviors by others (chewing on hair, pens, etc.)Īppropriate and timely medical evaluation is important when it is discovered or suspected that an individual has ingested a non-food substance. Remove easily ingestible items such as pens, erasers, paper clips, etc.Įnsure decorative items on clothing and toys are well-secured (buttons, snaps, patches, strings).Įvaluate materials that may be worn or easily disassembled (worn clothing, bedding, toys). Secure devices with small batteries (remotes, toys, clocks). Pay special attention to pleasantly scented items (wet-wipes, hand sanitizer, lotions). Store all medical and cleaning supplies out of reach or in locked cabinets (latex gloves, medication cups, thermometers, Band-Aids, bottles/aerosol with removal caps). Restrict access to garbage and compost (including cigarette butts, food waste, paper products). Routinely monitor areas utilized by the individual with pica tendencies. Additionally, visitors and caregivers should be educated on the disease and trained in prevention and treatment. Individuals with a history of pica should be clearly identified and their “favorite” non-edible items should be identified. Clear “House Rules” and regular sweeps aim to prevent access to pica hazards.
Negative Reinforcement: Swallowing relieves some bad feeling.Ĭannot discriminate between food/non-food due to intellectual disability or developmental level.Ī safe living environment requires constant vigilance on the part of caregivers and visitors. Positive Reinforcement: Swallowing or chewing feels good and provides sensory stimulation. While there is some support for cultural practices or nutritional deficiencies leading to increased rates of pica, in individuals with intellectual disabilities, literature suggests stronger relation to behavioral, developmental, and other cues driving behavior. Prior to the age of 18 months, pica is considered developmentally appropriate. Pica behaviors can be seen in all cultures however prevalence is greatly increased in cultures that accept the practices and in individuals with intellectual disabilities. Risks of pica are discussed below but may include infection, respiratory obstruction, or gastrointestinal obstruction. Practically the illness is characterized by a pattern (more than once in 1 month) of ingesting (eating vss mouthing) inedible materials (rocks, rubber gloves, hair, etc.). These steps will enable the doctor to diagnose pica and its complications and try to ascertain the cause behind it to the maximum probability.Pica is one of the most common eating disorders among individuals with autistic spectrum disorder and intellectual disabilities. Sometimes, imaging or an X-ray may be required to identify what was consumed or to closely observe conditions such as obstructions in the intestines or bowels if any is suspected.The doctor may also conduct a stool test to check for parasitic infections. Insufficiency of these vitamins or vitamin deficiency might be a cause for eating dirt (or clay) in certain cases. Blood tests check anemia, toxins in the blood, blockages in the intestines, and for iron and zinc deficiency. If any suspected behavior has occurred for one month or more than that, the doctor may order tests, such as blood tests or X-rays to confirm pica.The doctor may specifically want to know about the child’s food habits and the ambiance at home and school to understand the possible triggering factor.They will try to know about the child’s medical history, psychological development, and behavioral issues.If a child falls in the risk group, such as a child with developmental concerns, the doctor may ask the parents if they have seen their child eating nonfood items.The doctor will primarily look at the child’s physical symptoms such as an upset stomach or any other bowel problems like bloating.Hence, a pediatrician might use the below methods (13): There are no laboratory tests or a single approach diagnosis for pica.
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