In pica, the compulsive behavior has been linked to low economic status. The subject ate uncooked rice during three pregnancies resulting in abdominal discomfort (Upadhyaya & Sharma, 2012). An example of pica linked to OCD is a pregnant woman with obsessive-compulsive disorder whose sole manifestation was pica. If occurring with another mental disorder, or during a medical condition, it is severe enough to warrant independent clinical attention.Īlthough a link is often made between pica and obsessive-compulsive disorder, at this time pica is not classified as a symptom or specifier of OCD, although it was suggested as part of the DSM-5 reclassifications.The eating behavior is not part of a culturally supported or socially normative practice.The eating of nonnutritive, nonfood substances is inappropriate to the developmental level of the individual.Persistent eating of non-nutritive, nonfood substances for a period of at least one month.The criteria for pica under DSM-5 is as follows (APA, 2013): Individuals feigning a factitious disorder may ingest nonfood items in order to imitate the symptoms of a more serious disorder. Pica is often co-morbid with other mental disorders and may be seen in autism spectrum disorder, schizophrenia, anorexia nervosa and nonsuicidal self-injury. They are at higher risk of more serious health issues such as abdominal pain, and intestinal and colonic obstruction. Symptoms may include mineral deficiency, unhealthy nails and hair, and weight loss. Individuals who engage in pica may experience some of the same symptoms as a malnourished anorexic. Like those with OCD, individuals with pica are conscious of their behavior even though it is unhealthy and illogical behavior. 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. Low birth weight, premature birth, mental and physical abnormalities among infants whose mothers practice pica during pregnancy.DSM-5 Category: Feeding and Eating Disorders Introduction.High blood pressure, high levels of sodium salts in the blood, and abnormal liver functions such as those resulting from consuming large quantities of baking powder.Infestations of parasites such as tapeworms resulting from consuming dirt or feces.Damage to teeth and gums from chewing abrasive materials such as twigs or metals.Nutritional deficiencies, such as the interference of soil with the absorption of iron, zinc, and potassium in the digestive system.Inadequate protein or energy-intake from consuming things like coffee grounds or oyster shells in place of real food.
Obesity from consuming too many calories, such as eating laundry starch.Obstruction of the bowel or airways from consuming or choking on indigestible materials such as hair.Poisoning, such as lead poisoning from eating chips of old paint or soil that has old paint in it.If pica is a result of stress, treatment may involve talk therapy or family therapy and the development of coping skills, such as learning stress-reduction techniques or finding a safe substance to chew on instead. If pica is a result of inadequate supervision, treatment may involve educating the family and teaching children to distinguish between food and non-food items, and addressing housing and economic needs if possible. Doctors may treat the medical problems first, assess potential causes of the disorder such as nutrient deficiencies, and then develop a treatment plan that may involve changes to diet and nutrition as well as therapy.
Treatment for pica varies based on what substance the person has consumed and how it has affected the body. Therefore, it’s important to monitor and treat the condition as early as possible. However, it may also lead to medical complications such as intestinal obstruction, bowel problems, weight loss, broken teeth, infections, or poisoning.
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