Pica is sometimes linked to obsessive-compulsive disorder and impulse disorder because of the persistent dieting on non-nutritious food. Items eaten include earth, paper, chalk, feces, glass, paper and other nonfood items. Under DSM-5, there is no age specification for the onset of pica. With the new classification, DSM-5 sought to address the over classification of eating disorders into a not otherwise specified category.
Pica, formerly under a section for disorders with onset in childhood and adolescence, now falls under the eating disorders umbrella of “Feeding and Eating Disorders” in DSM-5. Adults engaging in pica often have intellectual disabilities. Pica in children over five years of age can be a sign of age-inappropriate behavior. The act is considered developmentally inappropriate as non-discrimination between what one ingests orally is associated with young children.
Pica involves an individual persistently and compulsively eating nonfood substances that are nonnutritious. Because so many factors contributed to pica, it’s best to get help in determining the best plan to keep your child safe from foreign substances they introduce to their own bodies.DSM-5 Category: Feeding and Eating Disorders Introduction
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Behavior modification is a useful approach, but should be handled with consistency by a professional lest the behaviors simply be driven into secrecy. Sensory chew toys can provide a viable outlet for the child seeking oral stimulation. Many have reported that the addition of zinc to a child’s diet alleviates pica. Consultation with a nutritional expert may unearth deficiencies which can be addressed. Scrupulous attention to child-proofing your home is recommended, as is personal vigilance in watching your child. Still others may have mental health issues such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and schizophrenia. Some children simply lack the ability to discriminate between edible and non-edible substances, while others have sensory issues like a need for oral stimulation. Pica behaviors can indicate dietary deficiencies such as anemia. The very young all go through the stage of putting everything in their mouths, but some children persist with the behavior. Obviously, many of these substances pose considerable dangers such as lead poisoning from paint chips, gastrointestinal obstructions, bowel problems, dental calamities, parasitic infections from dirt and feces and intestinal perforation. Among the other common cravings are clay, paint chips, plaster, chalk, cornstarch, laundry starch, baking soda, coffee grounds, cigarette ashes & butts, feces,buttons, glue, ice, sand and toothpaste. Geophagy is the term for pica sufferers who eat dirt. Women and children with autism are most vulnerable to pica. Hospitalizations for pica incidents have risen a startling 93% over the last ten years, a jump attributed to the rise in autism.
Children between the age of two and three, and/or people with developmental disabilities display pica behavior such as consuming dirt, hair, foam, paper, etc. The word “pica” comes from the Latin word for magpie, a bird known for eating anything in its path. Pica is an abnormal craving for non-edible substances.