Pica syndrome

Pica syndrome is an interesting disorder in which the person eats nonfood items. Those items include: ice, soap, hair, dirt, paint, glue, cigarette ashes etc.
People with pica eat items that have no nutritional value regularly. They have to eat those things for at least one month to qualify as pica.

The exact cause of this disease is unknown. Sometimes, Pica syndrome is associated with certain deficiencies: iron or zinc deficiency.

There is no test for Pica syndrome. it is associated with mental disabilities: OCD, schizophrenia, trichotillomania, excoriation disorder.

Pica can affect any people of any genders and age and is more prevalent in developing countries.The doctor can establish the diagnosis based on the person's behavior and history. The treatment depends on the patient's situation. If the patient is intoxicated with lead, the doctor will prescribe chelation therapy.In case of a nutritional imbalance, the doctor will recommend mineral supplements and vitamins. The doctor may also order a psychological evaluation.

Pica symptoms are related to the nonfood item he or she has eaten. They include:

• Stomach upset.
• Stomach pain.
• Blood in the stool (which may be a sign of an ulcer that developed from eating nonfood items).
• Bowel problems (such as constipation or diarrhea).

Pica cannot be prevented.Most children outgrow pica as they get older. It usually goes away in a few months. However, high-risk populations, such as children and adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities, may need continued monitoring of their behavior and environment.