What is Pica?
Pica is found more commonly in children, pregnant women, and individuals with mental health issues. It can be triggered by conditions like iron deficiency anaemia, zinc deficiency, and malnutrition. Sometimes, pica is related to cultural traditions, like the consumption of clay in some societies.
Diagnosis
Doctors diagnose pica when a patient has persistently eaten non-food items for at least one month. The disorder can interfere with nutritional health and lead to serious complications if sharp, indigestible, or contaminated items are consumed. Treatment focuses on replacing missing nutrients, addressing any co-occurring disorders, and behaviour modification therapy.
Treatments for pica
Pica treatment targets the underlying cause of the disorder rather than just the behaviour itself. Nutritional deficiencies are commonly addressed through vitamin supplements. For example, iron deficiency anaemia may be treated with iron supplementation.
Providing nutrients through a healthy diet can help reduce cravings for non-food items. Patients may work with dietitians to plan balanced meals and make sure they are meeting daily recommended intakes.
Behaviour modification therapies are used to discourage pica actions and reinforce healthier eating habits. This can involve rewards for avoiding pica behaviours and ignoring/removing rewards if pica recurs. Family therapy helps families better support pica patients.
In extreme cases, medications may be used to curb pica cravings. Supervision at mealtimes is also sometimes necessary to prevent the consumption of dangerous items. Ongoing monitoring of nutritional intake and physical status allows doctors to assess progress.
Types of rarer eating disorders
While conditions like anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder are relatively well-known, several rarer eating disorders also exist
Rumination Disorder
Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder (ARFID)
Purging Disorder
Night Eating Syndrome
Orthorexia Nervosa
These disorders are distinct conditions requiring tailored treatment approaches. Like pica, therapy involves addressing any nutritional deficiencies, underlying medical issues, and the root psychological causes that maintain disordered eating patterns. With professional help, recovery is possible.