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What Causes Toddlers To Eat Dirt And Paint?
Question: My 2 year old has been trying to eat handfuls of dirt and paint (non-toxic). Should I have him tested to see if his system is lacking anything or is this normal for his age?
Brief Answer:
This habit is known as pica
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Welcome to Healthcare-Magic
Greetings of the day
Dear Ms,
Such habit is known as pica. It is usually associated with Iron/Calcium deficiency. It is totally harmless and majority of the children stop the habit spontaneously.
I would suggest you the following
1. Iron and Calcium supplement
2. Deworm the child with anti-helminthic
Take Care
Best regards
Dr Deepak Kishore
MBBS,MS,MCh
Consultant Pediatric Surgeon
This habit is known as pica
Detailed Answer:
Hi
Welcome to Healthcare-Magic
Greetings of the day
Dear Ms,
Such habit is known as pica. It is usually associated with Iron/Calcium deficiency. It is totally harmless and majority of the children stop the habit spontaneously.
I would suggest you the following
1. Iron and Calcium supplement
2. Deworm the child with anti-helminthic
Take Care
Best regards
Dr Deepak Kishore
MBBS,MS,MCh
Consultant Pediatric Surgeon
Note: For further queries related to your child health, Talk to a Pediatrician. Click here to Book a Consultation.
Above answer was peer-reviewed by :
Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar
Answered by
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