Pica : Learning Center on Healthline.com

Pica Learning Center

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Pica

Pica is a pattern of eating non-food materials(such as dirt or paper).Pica is seen more in young children than adults. Between 10 and 32% of children ages 1- 6 have these behaviors.Pica can occur during pregnancy.

Basic Info

Symptoms

Children and adults with pica may eat:Animal fecesClayDirtHairballsIcePaintSandThis pattern of eating should last at ...

Causes

Pica is seen more in young children than adults. Between 10 and 32% of children ages 1 - 6 have these behaviors.

Tests

There is no single test that confirms pica. However, because pica can occur in people who have lower than normal nutr...

Treatments

Treatment should first address any missing nutrients and other medical problems, such as lead exposure.Treatment invo...

Available Treatments

Drugs

No Known Drug Therapy

Risk Factors

Complications

Prevention

There is no specific prevention. Getting enough nutrition may help.

Doctor Specialties

Call your health care provider if you notice that a child(or adult) often eats non-food materials.

Basic Info

Multimedia

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