Understanding PICA
PICA is an eating disorder in children and adults that involves eating items that are not typically thought of as food and that do not contain significant nutritional value, such as soil, chalk and paper.
It can also include an abnormal appetite for things that may be considered food, like flour, raw potato and starch.
Facts about PICA
- PICA is seen in all ages, particularly in pregnant women and small children, and especially among children who have a developmental disability.
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For a child to be diagnosed with the eating disorder of pica the symptoms must persist for more than one month, at an age where eating such objects is considered developmentally inappropriate.
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Pica generally occurs between 12 and 24 months but can occur in adults
What are the symptoms of PICA?
PICA symptoms are caused by the nonfood items that have been consumed. They can include:
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Stomach pain
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Blood in the stool (which may be a sign of an ulcer that developed from eating nonfood items).
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Bowel problems (such as constipation or diarrhea).
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Stomach upset
How can CPL help?
CPL can support you with day-to-day tasks, depending on your needs, from getting ready for school, university or work, right through to mealtime assistance and medication.
Getting out into your community
Community access is an important part of everyday life. As this looks different for everyone, we will meet with you and your family to discuss what you like to do and how we can support you.
CPL provides 24/7 Supported Independent Living services, and has a number of vacancies in accessible homes.
Employment and Training opportunities
There are a range of disability employment and training pathways to help people who have Parkinson's to re-enter or join the workforce.
Give us a call on 1800 275 753 to discuss your support needs with our team, or send an online enquiry and we'll be in touch.
Get In Touch
Get in touch
Find out what services you can access in your area or check out your nearest CPL centre.