For example, older children may also consume their nose pickings (‘boogers’) and ear wax despite understanding that these secretions should not be consumed. This behavior may continue into later childhood. Younger children who eat sand and other unusual substances may be exploring their surroundings with their different senses. Therefore pica is not usually diagnosed in children under the age of 2 years. Infants and toddlers for example may not understand that certain substances are not to be consumed and their behavior cannot be classified as pica. It is important to diagnose pica in children who are of the age to understand that these substances should not be consumed. Depending on the type of substance consumed and the quantity, there can be serious consequences of eating these sometimes toxic substances. Pica may not always be serious but can sometimes be caused by life-threatening conditions. Therefore pica is considered to be an eating disorder.People experiencing pica may consume indigestible materials, like paint chips, sand, chalk, dust, cigarettes ash, burned match sticks, soap or paper. It is not just a craving but the rather the consumption of these substances. Although nutritional deficiencies is one of the leading causes of pica, it can also be learned behavior, due to psychological stress, mental health disorders or even certain biochemical disorders. However, if such cravings persist for at least one month then it is diagnosed as pica. The odd episode of such cravings is not immediately considered to be pica. Pica is the medical term for unusual cravings and consumption of for substances that are considered indigestible or non-nutritive (not food stuffs). This may be a sign of an underlying disease or disorder which requires medical treatment. However, when there are cravings to consume non-edible substances then it should be investigated.
This is not considered abnormal or uncommon. We all experience cravings from time to time but these cravings are usually for certain foods, beverages or condiments.
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