Pica, a term derived from the Greek word meaning “to eat”, is a disorder that affects the skin.
It is commonly seen in children and has an estimated prevalence rate of 7%. The Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders IV (DSM IV) lists pica as a diagnosis for individuals between the ages of four and 18, although children as young as three may be affected by it.
Pica occurs when a person ingests tiny, hard, and usually small pieces of food such as sand, pebbles, or pebbles. Pica can cause scarring and skin damage, especially on the face, ears, or nose. Pica can also lead to skin conditions such as corns, warts, and warts that spread rapidly. A diet low in protein and iron is common in persons who suffer from pica.
Pica is a condition that results from repeated and persistent eating of non-nutrient rich materials. The Handbook of Clinical Psychology currently reports that prevalence rates of pica vary from 4% – 27% in children between the ages of four and eighteen. Pica symptoms are similar to those of other eating disorders, including binge eating, rapid weight gain, and irregular eating patterns.
The causes of pica are not known, but it is believed that it may result from a poor or non-existent balance in a child’s diet. Studies show that children with pica often lack certain nutrients found in many foods. Because pica often occurs in conjunction with other eating disorders, researchers are looking for ways to alleviate its symptoms.
Symptoms can range from mild to severe. Some children may only experience minor skin irritations and redness, while others may experience complete skin scarring. Severe cases of pica can cause scarring in children as well as serious health problems that include iron deficiency and anemia. Children with this condition are often referred to a pediatric occupational therapist, which provides treatment for both symptoms and underlying conditions.
When symptoms are severe, medical treatment may be required.
The treatment options available depend on the cause of pica and the child’s overall health. Treatment may include dietary counseling, medication, surgery, or a combination of the two. Some treatments may include counseling sessions with a licensed mental health professional, which provides information on ways to increase self-esteem, improve social skills, and improve cognitive function. In most cases, the disorder is treated by changing eating habits and possibly adding supplements to the child’s diet.
Certain medications may also be prescribed to prevent the recurrence of the symptoms. However, a diet low in protein and iron can help to reduce the number of occurrences of pica. If a child’s symptoms are severe, treatment may involve surgical procedures to remove the affected area. The child’s immune system may need to be strengthened to avoid another bout with pica.
Children with a pica disorder should always be evaluated by a physician to determine if they need any special treatment. Children suffering from pica should always seek proper treatment as soon as possible.
Children with pica who suffer from asthma may need to receive a special inhaler to prevent their symptoms from worsening. Children who have chronic infections may also benefit from a special inhaler to control their symptoms.
It is important for parents to provide pica disorder treatment as soon as possible for the sake of their child’s health. It is important for children with this disorder to have positive relationships with their families, teachers, and school staff, and for them to get the help they need when they need it.
Pica disorder often takes several years to develop and is often difficult to treat. A child with this disorder may need to see a pediatric occupational therapist for months at a time if their symptoms are severe.
A pediatric occupational therapist can be the first line of defense when your child’s diet is causing him or her to experience symptoms of pica. If your child’s diet is causing pica, you may be able to address the problem on your own through diet and nutritional counseling, with the goal of decreasing the frequency and severity of future episodes.