Pica: Eating disorder that makes one eat hair and soil; know symptoms and cure
The condition or habit of eating inedible things is referred to as Pica. This kind of eating disorder is especially common in children and people with certain medical conditions. Although the disease generally causes no harm to people, the ingestion of certain things can be harmful. Experts say that it can be cured through therapy and introducing changes in lifestyle. The name is derived from the bird magpies (Pica Pica), which eat unusual things.
Even though pica can affect people of any age, it's categorised into three categories. Children under the age of six, pregnant women, and people with autism spectrum disorder and schizophrenia can be affected.
These people cannot stop the urge to eat inedible things; the complications of this disorder depend on the kinds of things that are eaten. Some people may develop a habit of eating substances that are harmless, while others may develop a habit of consuming toxic substances that can be harmful to the body, like hair, soil, etc., that can disrupt digestive processes or may even cause fungal, bacterial, or viral infections.
Many people with the condition do not open up to experts or seek treatment due to fear and hesitation. Ash, chalk, soil, powder, ice, paper, soap, clothes, etc. are some of the common things eaten by people with Pica disorder.
Symptoms
- Anaemia
- Uneasiness
- Constipation
- Infection
- Electrolyte imbalance
- Variations in heartbeats
- Obstructions in the small intestine and large intestine
- Lead poisoning
No real reason has yet been found as to what causes the disorder. But some factors, like extreme stress, childhood trauma and insecurities, and deficiencies in iron, calcium, and zinc, are considered factors that lead to pica disorder. Consumption of certain medicines is also said to cause this issue in people.
Toxicity, viral infections, bacterial infections, electrolyte imbalances, etc. can be determined by examining blood, urine, and stool. CT scans, X-rays, and MRIs are done to identify internal problems due to this condition. Heart rate and rhythm can be checked through an electrocardiogram.
Pica developed during pregnancies usually disappears naturally. Usually, through therapy, people are educated on what is edible and what is not. Sometimes, antipsychotic drugs are also given to cure this condition.