Pica

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Pica

Medically reviewed · Ratel Health editorial team · Sunday, 16 August 2026

An eating disorder involving persistent eating of non-nutritive, non-food substances over a period of at least one month.

Overview

Pica involves persistent eating of substances that are not food and have no nutritional value, such as paper, soap, or dirt, for at least one month, inappropriate to the individual’s developmental level.

Signs and Symptoms

Symptoms can include recurrent ingestion of non-food items, sometimes leading to medical complications such as gastrointestinal blockage or poisoning. Experiencing one or more of these symptoms does not necessarily mean that a person has this condition. Diagnosis requires an appropriate clinical evaluation.

Causes and Risk Factors

Associated factors can include nutritional deficiencies, developmental conditions, or co-occurring mental health conditions, though the exact cause varies by individual.

Diagnosis

A diagnosis should be made by a qualified healthcare professional following a comprehensive clinical assessment. Clinicians may use established diagnostic frameworks such as DSM-5-TR and/or ICD-11 as part of a comprehensive assessment.

Treatment

Treatment depends on the individual’s symptoms, clinical history, severity, age, co-occurring conditions, and other relevant factors.

Psychotherapy

Behavioral interventions may help reduce non-food ingestion, particularly in children and individuals with developmental disabilities.

Living With Pica

Medical evaluation is important to identify and address any nutritional deficiencies or complications.

When to Seek Professional Help

Professional evaluation may be appropriate if symptoms persist, worsen, cause significant distress, or interfere with work, school, or relationships.

Emergency Situations

If a person may be in immediate danger, is experiencing a medical or psychiatric emergency, or may harm themselves or another person, seek immediate assistance through appropriate local emergency services.

Outlook

Pica often resolves with treatment, particularly in children, though it may persist longer in some individuals with co-occurring conditions.

Related Conditions

Rumination Disorder

A feeding disorder involving repeated regurgitation of food after eating, which may be re-chewed, re-swallowed, or spit out.

Avoidant/Restrictive Food Intake Disorder

An eating disorder involving avoidance or restriction of food intake not driven by body image concerns, leading to nutritional or functional problems.

Medical Information Disclaimer

Ratel Health provides general educational information and does not provide medical diagnosis, treatment, or individualized medical advice. Information on this page is not a substitute for evaluation or care from a qualified healthcare professional. Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or another person, or to start, stop, or change treatment or medication without consulting an appropriately qualified healthcare professional.

References

  • American Psychiatric Association. Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders, Fifth Edition, Text Revision (DSM-5-TR).
  • National Institute of Mental Health.
  • World Health Organization. International Classification of Diseases, 11th Revision.