Pica
Pica is characterized by persistent eating of non-nutritive substances (e.g., soil, paper, chalk, hair) for at least one month.
Pica
Pica is characterized by persistent eating of non-nutritive substances (e.g., soil, paper, chalk, hair) for at least one month. The behavior is inappropriate for developmental level and can lead to poisoning, infections, gastrointestinal obstruction, or nutritional deficiencies. In Saudi Arabia, environmental and cultural factors may influence the substances ingested. Pica may be associated with iron or zinc deficiency, developmental disabilities, or psychiatric comorbidities such as OCD or autism.
What constitutes Pica?
- Persistent ingestion of non-food items for at least one month
- Developmentally inappropriate
- Not culturally sanctioned
- Causes health risks or functional impairment
Symptoms and warning signs
- Eating items like dirt, clay, paper, or hair
- Gastrointestinal symptoms or obstruction
- Nutritional deficiencies
- Social or familial concerns
Causes and risk factors
- Nutritional deficiencies (iron, zinc)
- Developmental disorders or intellectual disability
- Stress, neglect, or environmental deprivation
- Psychiatric comorbidity
Treatment approaches
- Behavioral therapy: habit reversal, positive reinforcement
- Nutritional therapy: supplementation for deficiencies
- Family supervision and education: preventing ingestion of harmful substances
- Psychotherapy: addressing underlying triggers
Why Act Center for Pica in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia?
Our experienced therapist in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia offer assessment and treatment to address the ingestion of non-food items and their underlying nutritional or psychological causes.
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