Ice Chalk Soap or laundry starch Clay, dirt, or sand Hair Cigarette butts or ashes and/or burnt matches Paint, glue, plaster or chalk Feces Talcum powder, cornstarch, or baking soda Toothpaste Mothballs Stones Coffee grounds
Constipation or intestinal obstruction Diarrhea Intestinal hemorrhage Severe tooth abrasion Tooth loss Choking
Lead poisoning or complications thereof Infections from parasites from animals, especially dogs and cats Round worm infections Intestinal ulcerations or perforations Iron or zinc deficiency syndromes GI-tract complications
Skipping meals Making excuses for not eating Withdrawing from normal social activities Leaving during meals to use the bathroom Expressing disgust, shame, or guilt about eating habits Eating in secret
Confusion Anger Resentment Protective of your habit Fear Anxiety Depression
Be aware that pica is common in individuals with intellectual disabilities, autism, other developmental disabilities, or differences in the brain. If a person with any of these conditions is showing signs of pica, talk to them about what they’ve been eating. You may get the answer simply by asking. Seek medical attention to help you deal with potential pica in a person with developmental disabilities.
Trichotillomania, or hair pulling disorder Excoriation, or skin picking disorder Nutritional deficiencies[11] X Research source Dieting Parental neglect such as food deprivation or lack of supervision Mental health conditions such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and schizophrenia Intellectual and developmental disabilities, including autism Pregnancy
Depression and anxiety Problems with growth and development Social and relationship problems Substance use disorders Problems at work or school Lead poisoning Parasitic infections Tooth and mouth injuries Complications from lead poisoning[13] X Research source Intestinal poisoning Intestinal blockages and/or perforation
Be aware that an eating disorder like pica can be difficult to manage on your own. Medical attention is the best way to get your pica under control. Tell your doctor about your problem honestly, even if it is embarrassing. This can help your doctor develop an accurate diagnosis and treatment program for you. Remember, a doctor is not there to judge, but help you. Recognize that your doctor may suggest treatment that includes therapies to remove toxic substances from your body or correct nutritional deficiencies. Your doctor may also suggest meeting with a psychologist, psychiatrist, social worker, or dentist to treat underlying causes. [15] X Research source
