Pica

Pica is a disorder where the person eats things which are not considered food items and have no nutritional value, such as tissue papers, clay, dirt or paint. The behaviour is considered inappropriate for the individual's developmental level. For example, it is not uncommon for very young children to explore their world by putting things in their mouths, but pica extends beyond this normal developmental stage. The exact causes of pica are not fully understood, but several factors may contribute to its development. These include nutritional deficiencies, developmental disorders like ASD and psychological factors such as stress or OCD. Consuming non-food items can lead to serious health problems, such as poisoning and intestinal blockages. Treatment for pica focuses on addressing underlying conditions and using behavioral therapies.