3-YO Girl Eats Everything Dangerous In The House- Glass, Foam, Furniture, And More Due To A Rare Condition

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A 25-year-old mum, Stacey A'Hearne, is tirelessly working to manage her daughter Wynter's rare condition, which has seen the three-year-old attempt to eat inedible and dangerous objects around their home, and that includes walls, the sofa, and even glass.

Diagnosed with autism, Wynter also struggles with Pica, which is an unusual eating disorder prompting cravings for such non-food items. Stacey, from Blackwood, shares her ongoing battle to ensure Wynter's safety amidst these challenging conditions.

Wynter's condition requires constant vigilance from Stacey, who has caught her daughter consuming plaster, and foam from the sofa, and attempting to chew on broken photo frame shards. Wynter's pica has even led her to eat parts of her cot and blanket during the night. Despite these dangers, Stacey, a full-time carer and mother of two, remains dedicated to monitoring Wynter closely to prevent any harm.

What Is Pica?
According to the nih.gov website, Pica is the compulsive eating of material that may or may not be foodstuff. The material is often consumed in large quantities without regard for nutritional consequences. The medical term comes from the Latin for magpie (Pica pica), a bird that by folklore incessantly gathers objects to satiate its curiosity.

However, this condition is not exclusive to autism spectrum disorder and it has been seen in people who have developmental disabilities or conditions such as schizophrenia or obsessive-compulsive disorder and also in otherwise neurotypical pregnant women.

When Did Wynter Exhibit Signs Of Pica?
The signs of Wynter's condition emerged around 13 months when she became non-verbal and her unusual eating habits intensified. After reaching out to healthcare professionals, Wynter was diagnosed with pica and, later in January 2024, with autism. Stacey has observed that Wynter's cravings might be tied to a sensory response, seeking out different textures to explore.

Therefore, Stacey's daily routine includes constant supervision and creative strategies to redirect Wynter's pica cravings towards safer alternatives. Sensory playtime, including chewable necklaces and textured pasta, has proven helpful in engaging Wynter in more appropriate sensory activities. Despite the challenges, Stacey remains hopeful that Wynter will outgrow her pica tendencies, with continuous support from her family and healthcare providers.

Effect Of Pica On Health
The consumption of non-food items can lead to a range of health problems. Nausea, abdominal pain, constipation, diarrhea, fatigue, and behavior problems are some of the complications that can arise. More severe consequences include stomach ulcers, lead poisoning, electrolyte imbalances, teeth injuries, and infections.

The treatment of pica is multi-faceted, targeting the various underlying factors and symptoms. This may involve medication for digestive problems, treatment for stomach ulcers, antibiotic treatment for infections, and nutritional supplements to address deficiencies.

Behavioral treatments are also common, aiming to redirect attention away from non-food objects and diminish the impulse to consume them. For many, especially children, pica can improve with appropriate medical and behavioral intervention. Pregnant people might see symptoms resolve post-pregnancy, while individuals with persistent mental health or developmental issues may experience symptoms into later life stages.

Seeking Professional Help, Treatments
Treating pica involves a multifaceted approach. This might include supplementing nutrient deficiencies, utilizing medications for symptoms like constipation or infections, and applying behavioral treatments to minimize the compulsion to ingest non-food items.

For many, especially children, treatment can significantly improve their condition. Pregnant women experiencing pica often see symptoms subside post-pregnancy. However, individuals with underlying mental health or developmental issues may face a longer journey in overcoming pica.

To cope with pica, avoiding non-food items, chewing gum, and stress management are recommended strategies. However, professional help should be sought for a comprehensive treatment plan. It's crucial for those dealing with pica to understand that they are not alone and that help is available. By addressing both the symptoms and the underlying causes, individuals with pica can work towards a healthier lifestyle.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.