What Will The Doctor Do For Pica?
Doctors play an important role in diagnosing and treating the eating disorder. Trained professionals will have advice for managing the behaviors and may even be able to teach you how to prevent such cravings from happening in the future. If your child has pica, doctors can instruct you on how to restrict access to the non-food items that your child wants. For example, they may suggest placing those items on higher shelves or keeping such items locked up.
Sometimes, pica requires intervention with a psychologist or therapist. Medications can also be prescribed to treat behavioral issues like pica, but it is not always effective.
Doctors may also check for other health conditions, like mineral deficiencies or anemia. Children and adults who have been consuming potentially lead-laced items will need to undergo testing for lead poisoning, as will pregnant women, since the risk of fatal lead levels runs high. X-rays may be issued to check for blockages or damage to the bowels.
Fortunately, pica will often go away as children age. Pica may persist in those with developmental disorders, however, and that requires continuous vigilance, ongoing treatment, and a safe environment.
