All articles tagged with #pica
A 36-year-old woman developed an unusual craving for bleach due to a vitamin B12 deficiency caused by an autoimmune disorder, highlighting the importance of psychiatric evaluation in complex medical cases involving pica and toxic substance cravings.
Craving ice may be a sign of iron deficiency anemia, a condition where the body lacks enough healthy red blood cells, and can be associated with symptoms like fatigue and pale skin. It is important to consult a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment, as self-diagnosis and supplementation can be dangerous.
A 31-year-old woman on dialysis in the UK developed pica, eating foam from her chair to try and absorb excess fluid due to kidney failure, highlighting an unusual and under-diagnosed behavior in renal patients. Her condition was managed through education, family involvement, and laxatives, with no evidence of nutritional deficiencies or psychosocial triggers.
A woman from London, Dymund Dina, has developed a strong craving for edible clay called mabele during her pregnancies. She began craving clay during her first pregnancy in 2013 and has since spent over $3,800 on it. The clay is said to help with morning sickness and other gastric disorders. Dymund's craving for clay has continued even after her pregnancies, and she describes it as an addiction. Pica, the craving for substances with little or no nutritional value, is not uncommon among pregnant women and can sometimes be linked to iron deficiencies.
Cats may lick tape and plastic due to a condition called pica, a compulsive behavior that leads cats to chew and ingest non-food items. The exact cause of pica is unknown, but it can be exacerbated by stress, frustration, or eating regimens. Cats may also be attracted to tape due to its smell, crinkling sound, or pleasing texture. However, unless diagnosed with pica, the exact reason for a cat's snacking habits cannot be determined. Pet owners should keep small items out of reach and dispose of boxes with tape to prevent potential gastrointestinal blockages. Veterinary care should be sought if a cat shows signs of pica.