PICA

What is Pica?

Pica is an eating disorder that is characterised by the persistent consumption of non-nutritive, non-food substances. Those with Pica may consume paper, dirt, clay, hair, ice or even more hazardous materials like metal or glass.

The name “Pica” comes from the Latin word for the magpie, a bird known for eating almost anything. It is most commonly observed in young children, pregnant women and individuals with developmental conditions such as autism. However, as Pica is often shrouded in secrecy, shame and guilt, it is difficult to estimate how many people truly suffer from this condition accurately.

What are the causes of Pica?

Pica’s causes are multifaceted and can vary greatly from person to person. There is often no single cause but rather a combination of biological, psychological and environmental factors contributing to Pica’s development. These include:

• Nutritional deficiencies: One of the most common Pica causes is a deficiency in certain nutrients, such as iron or zinc. This deficiency may lead you to crave non-food items which contain these metals.
• Developmental disorders: Pica is often associated with developmental disorders like autism, where you may have abnormal eating habits due to sensory issues or other cognitive differences.
• Mental health conditions: Certain mental health conditions, such as schizophrenia or obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), can also contribute to the development of Pica.
• Cultural factors: In some cultures, eating certain non-food items is considered normal, which can lead to Pica. However, this is considered when a Pica diagnosis is made to differentiate between a cultural diet choice and an underlying health issue.
• Pregnancy: Some pregnant women develop unusual cravings, which can include non-food items, possibly due to nutritional deficiencies or hormonal changes.

What does Pica diagnosis involve?

As with all eating disorders, diagnosing Pica requires a comprehensive, professional evaluation due to the highly complex nature of the condition. This often involves a team of healthcare providers addressing the multifaceted aspects of the disorder and creating an effective Pica recovery plan. Pica diagnosis will usually include:

Consideration of Pica DSM-V criteria

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition (DSM-V), the criteria for Pica diagnosis include the persistent eating of non-nutritive, non-food substances for a period longer than one month. This behaviour must be:

1. Not a culturally supported or socially normative practice
This means that a person eating something unusual for one culture but typical for their own culture would also not be diagnosed with Pica.

2. Inappropriate to the developmental level of the individual
For example, toddlers and young children often put non-food items in their mouths as a natural part of development and exploration. Therefore, a child of this age would not be diagnosed with Pica. However, once the child reaches an age where this behaviour is unusual, a Pica diagnosis would then be considered.

Physical Pica assessment

A physical assessment is crucial in diagnosing the causes and consequences of Pica. This can help ascertain the extent of the issue and see through any denial or deception. A physical Pica assessment may include:

• Blood tests: To check for nutritional deficiencies that may drive the urge to consume non-food items.
• Gastrointestinal exams: To identify any physical damage or obstructions caused by ingesting non-food materials.
• Dental check-ups: To assess any damage to teeth and gums.

Psychological Pica assessment

A psychological evaluation helps in understanding the behavioural aspects and any underlying mental health conditions associated with Pica. This may involve:

• Interviews and questionnaires: To gather detailed information about eating habits, mental health history and developmental milestones.
• Behavioural observation: This can provide insights into the triggers and circumstances surrounding eating non-food items.

Compassion and sensitivity are paramount throughout the Pica diagnosis process, as many individuals may feel embarrassed or ashamed of their condition. As Pica is most often seen in young children and those with developmental challenges, parents and other family members are typically involved in Pica diagnosis, too.

Begin a new Pica-free life today

Embarking on the journey to overcome Pica can be challenging but it is a path filled with hope and the promise of a healthier, more fulfilling life. At UKAT, Banbury Lodge, we are committed to providing the support, care and treatment you need to navigate this journey successfully. Reach out to us today and take that brave first step towards a brighter future.

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