If you’re not familiar with the term stimming, it is another way of saying that someone is engaging in self-stimulatory behavior. In some instances, chewing can be caused by a need to stim. To break it down further, let’s look at a couple of specific types of sensory issues that may lead to a need to chew. When it comes to excessive chewing, the latter is usually the case. On the flip side, information that a neurotypical person would easily respond and react to may go unnoticed by someone whose sensory systems are under responsive. Things that neurotypical people barely even notice can be completely overwhelming to someone whose sensory systems are heightened. When someone’s sensory processing is impacted, the way in which they perceive the world can be significantly affected. Someone who engages in chewing activities may do so for one reason or due to a combination of reasons. When it comes to chewing/mouthing inedible objects, there are a number of ways in which sensory issues can come into play. Read part 1 here.Īnother possible cause of Pica – Sensory issuesĬhallenges with processing and responding to sensory input are extremely common among people with autism.

If your child might have eaten something harmful, get medical care right away or call Poison Control at (800) 222-1222.In part 1, we discussed chewing, mouthing, or eating of inedible objects also known as Pica Syndrome and possible underlying nutritional deficiencies that can contribute to these behaviors.If your child is at risk for pica, or you see signs that worry you, talk to your doctor.If these treatments do not work, doctors can also prescribe medicines. Some kids with pica need help from a psychologist or other mental health professional. They may recommend childproof locks and high shelving to keep items out of reach. For example, they can work with parents on ways to prevent kids from getting the non-food things they eat. order X-rays or other imaging tests to find out what the child ate or to look for bowel problems, such as a blockageĭoctors can help parents manage and stop pica-related behaviors.check for anemia or other nutrition problems.

the child has risk factors for pica, such as a developmental disability.

the behavior isn't normal for the child's age or developmental stage.

How Is Pica Diagnosed?ĭoctors might think it's pica if a child eats non-food items and: But for people with developmental or mental health concerns, it can still be a problem later in life. So the behavior isn't usually considered a disorder unless a child is older than 2. It's normal for kids up to 2 years old to put things in their mouth. Most cases of pica happen in young children and pregnant women. Pica is often seen in kids living in poverty, or in those who've been abused or neglected. Low levels of nutrients like iron or zinc might trigger specific cravings. Non-food items might help give a feeling of fullness.

mental health problems, like obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) or schizophrenia.

developmental problems, such as autism or intellectual disabilities.

intestinal obstruction, from eating things that block the intestinesĭoctors don't know exactly what causes pica.

intestinal infections, from eating soil or poop that has parasites or worms.

constipation or diarrhea, from eating things the body can't digest (like hair).

lead poisoning, from eating dirt or paint chips with lead.

Health problems can happen in kids with pica, depending on what they eat. People with pica crave and eat non-food items such as: Sometimes they eat things that can lead to health problems. But kids with pica (PIE-kuh) go beyond that. Young kids often put non-food items (like grass or toys) in their mouths because they're curious about the world around them. Pica is an eating disorder in which a person eats things not usually considered food.

Autism pica syndrome