Common Types of Pica

Pica categorizations are dependent on the type of non-food item consumed. Some of the most commonly reported types include:

• Geophagia: The consumption of dirt, clay or soil.
• Pagophagia: The craving for ice, which is often associated with iron deficiency anemia.
• Amylophagia: The consumption of starch, such as cornstarch or laundry starch.
• Trichophagia: The eating of hair or wool, which can sometimes lead to hairballs in the digestive tract.
• Plumbophagia: The ingestion of lead-based items, such as paint chips, which is particularly dangerous due to the risk of lead poisoning.

Causes of Pica

The causes of pica are varied and not fully understood, as the condition can result from a combination of biological, psychological and cultural factors. Some of the possible causes and risk factors include:

• Nutritional Deficiencies: Nutritional deficiencies, especially iron, zinc and calcium deficiencies, are thought to be one of the primary drivers of pica. For example, pagophagia (craving ice) has been strongly linked to iron deficiency anemia. The body may attempt to obtain missing nutrients by craving non-food items that might contain them, even if in minimal amounts.
• Developmental Disorders: Pica is frequently observed in individuals with developmental disabilities, such as autism spectrum disorder (ASD) or intellectual disabilities. The compulsive behavior may stem from sensory-seeking tendencies or challenges with impulse control.
• Mental Health Conditions: Pica can also be associated with mental health conditions, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or schizophrenia. For some individuals, eating non-food items may provide comfort or serve as a coping mechanism.
• Cultural and Environmental Factors: In some cultures, the consumption of specific non-food items, like clay or chalk, is culturally accepted or even encouraged, especially among pregnant women. Certain environmental factors, like stress or trauma, can trigger pica behaviors.

Health Risks of Pica

Engaging in pica behaviors can pose serious health risks, depending on the items consumed. Some of the potential health complications include:

• Intestinal Blockages: Consuming items like stones, hair or plastic can cause blockages in the digestive tract, which may require surgical intervention.
• Poisoning: Certain non-food items, like lead paint chips or contaminated soil, can contain toxins. Lead poisoning, in particular, can lead to neurological and developmental issues, especially in children.
• Infections: Eating dirt or other unsanitary items can introduce harmful bacteria, parasites and other pathogens into the body, leading to infections.
• Dental Damage: Hard substances, such as ice or rocks, can wear down or fracture teeth, causing dental complications over time.
• Nutritional Deficiencies: In severe cases, individuals with pica may neglect nutritious foods, exacerbating existing nutritional deficiencies and impacting overall health.

Diagnosis of Pica

Diagnosing pica typically involves a comprehensive evaluation by a healthcare professional.

Doctors will inquire about the patient’s eating habits, including any history of craving non-food items. Blood tests may also be conducted to detect nutritional deficiencies or signs of toxicity, such as elevated lead levels. Since pica can be linked to mental health disorders, a psychological assessment may be necessary to evaluate for any underlying psychiatric conditions.

In cases where pica behaviors are suspected to stem from developmental disabilities, additional assessments may be needed to understand the full range of behavioral challenges the individual may face.

Treatment Options for Pica

Treating pica requires a personalized approach that addresses both the behavioral and potential medical aspects of the condition. Treatment may include:

• Nutritional Supplementation: Correcting underlying nutrient deficiencies, especially iron or zinc, can often reduce or eliminate cravings for non-food items. A healthcare provider can determine if supplementation is necessary based on lab results.
• Behavioral Therapy: Behavioral interventions, particularly those based on cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), can be effective in helping individuals with pica. Techniques such as positive reinforcement, habit reversal training and aversion therapy may be used to reduce the compulsion to eat non-food items.
• Environmental Modifications: For individuals with developmental disabilities, environmental modifications can be beneficial. This may include removing non-food items from their immediate surroundings and providing safer, sensory-appropriate alternatives.
• Medication: In cases where pica is associated with underlying mental health conditions, medications such as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs) may be prescribed to manage symptoms of OCD or anxiety that contribute to pica behaviors.

Are You or a Member of Your Family Struggling With Pica? The Houston Behavioral Health Experts at St. Hope Healthcare Are Here to Help

If you or a loved one is affected by pica, contact us today through our website or give us a call at (713) 778-1300 to learn more about how we can provide support and treatment. Early intervention can significantly reduce health risks and help individuals lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.