Does your little one eat things that are not edible? Let's talk about Pica!

Have you ever seen your little one put something in their mouth, like a toy, a bit of dirt, or a piece of leaf? Little children are very curious and learn about the world by putting things in their mouths. It's normal. However, there are some children who constantly eat things that are not suitable for eating. We call this condition (Pica) in medical science. This is something to be a little concerned about, because sometimes this can cause various health problems for the child.

What are the symptoms of Pica? What exactly does the child eat?

Children with pica have an unusual desire to eat things that are not suitable for eating. For example, some children eat things like:

• Soil, clay
• Pebbles
• Paper
• Ice cubes (in large quantities)
• Colored pencils, chalk sticks
• Your own hair
• Paint chips on the walls
• Poop (yes, sometimes I'm tempted to eat that stuff too)

You may be surprised to hear this, but this is a real situation that can happen to children. The important thing is to understand that this is not something the child is doing on purpose.

What health problems can be caused by Pica?

Health problems are determined by what the child eats. Simply put, problems arise when something unsuitable for eating enters the body.

• Iron- deficiency anemia : When some children eat things like soil, it can interfere with the body's ability to absorb iron . This can lead to anemia, a condition in which there is a lack of blood .
• Lead poisoning : This is a very dangerous thing. Some types of paint used in the past may contain lead. So if a child eats pieces of paint from such old walls, that lead can enter the body (lead poisoning) . This is very harmful to the child's brain development and nervous system.
• Constipation or diarrhea : When you eat things like hair or pieces of cloth, they don't digest properly. This can lead to stomach upset, constipation, and sometimes diarrhea.
• Intestinal infections: When you eat things like soil and feces, the germs , parasites, or worms in them can enter your stomach and cause infections.
• Intestinal obstruction: Sometimes, something your child eats can get stuck in the intestines, causing a blockage. This is also a condition that requires emergency treatment.
• Mouth or teeth injuries: Eating pebbles or sharp objects can cause injuries to the mouth, tongue, and teeth.

Know: Not all of these things happen to every child. However, we should remember that there is a risk of this if (Pica) is present.

Why does this condition (Pica) occur? What are the causes?

Doctors still can't pinpoint the exact cause of pica, but there are a few groups that are more likely to experience the condition:

• Children with developmental problems: For example, children with autism or intellectual disabilities are more likely to develop pica.
• Mental health issues: Pica can also be associated with certain mental health conditions, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or schizophrenia .
• Malnutrition or hunger: Sometimes, when the body is deficient in nutrients, especially iron or zinc, you may feel the urge to eat strange things to compensate for the deficiency. It may also be because eating inappropriate foods makes you feel full.
• Stress: This is also a very important issue. Especially children from families that live in poverty, have a poor home environment, are neglected, or are physically or mentally abused are more likely to develop Pica. In such cases, this may be a way for them to release their stress and tension.

Pica is most commonly seen in young children and pregnant women. It is considered normal for children to put things in their mouths until they are about 2 years old. So, if a child is over 2 years old and has been eating inappropriate foods for more than a month, we suspect that this is a condition called Pica. In most cases, this habit decreases as children grow older. However, for those with developmental problems or mental health issues, this can continue as an issue into adulthood.

How do doctors diagnose Pica?

If you suspect that your child is eating inappropriate foods, you should definitely see a doctor. A doctor may suspect that your child has pica based on the following factors:

• If the child has been eating unhealthy foods for at least a month straight.
• This behavior is not normal for the child's age or developmental level . (I've said before that it's normal for children under 2 to put things in their mouths).
• If the child has risk factors for developing Pica (e.g., growth problems).

In addition, the doctor may also perform tests such as:

• A blood test to check for iron deficiency (anemia) or other nutritional problems.
• Testing for lead levels in the blood.
• Stool test to check for parasites .
• X-rays or other scans to see what the child has eaten or if there is a problem such as an intestinal blockage.

How is Pica treated?

Don't be alarmed by this. Pica is a treatable condition. Doctors can help you, as parents, control and stop these behaviors associated with Pica.

• Educating parents: For example, you can advise them to keep the things they eat out of reach of their children, use childproof locks, and store belongings on upper floors where children cannot reach them.
• Nutritional advice: If the child has a nutrient deficiency such as iron or zinc, you can give them the necessary pills or syrups. You can also advise them on a balanced diet.
• Behavioral therapy: Some children may need the help of a psychologist or other mental health professional . They will talk to the child and try to change the inappropriate behavior through various methods.
• Medication: In most cases, these treatments can control the condition. However, in some severe cases, especially if there is another underlying psychological problem (Pica), doctors may also prescribe medication.

The most important thing is that you don't try to find solutions to this on your own, but seek medical advice.

Other important things to know

• If you have any suspicions that your child may have Pica, or if you notice any symptoms that worry you, please talk to a doctor.
• If you think your child has eaten something harmful, for example a piece of paint, a battery, or a pill, seek medical attention immediately. Alternatively, in Sri Lanka, you can call the National Poisons Information Centre - 0112 686 143 for advice.

Finally, things to remember (Take-Home Message)

Pica is a common habit among young children that involves eating things that are not edible. There can be various reasons behind this.

• This is not the child's fault. So don't scold or punish the child.
• Eating unhealthy foods can lead to health problems, so it's not a good idea to ignore this.
• It is essential to seek medical advice. A doctor can make an accurate diagnosis and provide the necessary treatment and advice.
• Parental attention, love, and proper guidance are very important to control this condition.

We appreciate your concern for your child. We hope you find this information helpful. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to ask a doctor.

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` Pica, eating inappropriate foods, children's health, nutritional deficiencies, lead poisoning, mental health, developmental problems