Pika syndrome; It is the continuous and persistent eating of substances that have no nutritional value (soil, paper, ice, hair, ash, etc.) for at least 1 month.
It is more commonly known as the habit of eating soil. It can be seen in all societies and age groups, being more common in children.
DSM-5 DIAGNOSTIC CRITERIA
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For at least 1 month, Constantly eating non-nutritious substances that have no nutritional value
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The attitude of eating non-nutritious substances that have no nutritional value is not compatible with the developmental level of the person.
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This eating behavior is not a culturally based or socially acceptable practice.
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If this eating behavior occurs in the context of another mental disorder (e.g. . intellectual disability, autism disorder, schizophrenia) is also severe enough to require clinical evaluation.
SYMPTOMS
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Lead poisoning
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Infections
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Abdominal pain
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Stomach and intestinal problems (constipation, diarrhea)
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Blood in the stool (as a result of constantly consuming non-food foods)
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Tooth injuries
CAUSES
The cause of pica disease is not fully known. It is thought to have multiple reasons. The most common cause is iron and zinc deficiency. At the same time, psychological problems can also push a person to an eating disorder. Especially people with schizophrenia and obsessive-compulsive disorder may develop pica. Pica may occur with anemia, especially during pregnancy. It can also be seen as a result of malnutrition in children.
TREATMENT
First of all, it is important to determine what causes this disease. The child's nutritional deficiencies, psycho-social and neurological status must be well evaluated. It is tested and evaluated especially for mineral and nutritional deficiencies. In most cases, problems with eating behavior disappear when vitamin and mineral deficiencies are corrected. If it does not disappear, it is evaluated in the child psychology service for behavioral disorders.
Stay healthy.
Stay healthy.
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