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Why Would A 4-year-old Lick Dust From Metal Grills?

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Posted on Thu, 25 May 2023
Question: Hi..my son is 4 years old..he is healthy and active. From past fees days he is licking dust from grills etc.,.. Is this some kind of vitamin deficiency.. please suggest if any tonic.
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Answered by Dr. Arun (13 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Could be iron deficiency

Detailed Answer:

Hi,

The symptoms you describe could be related to pica seen in iron deficiency anemia. I usually advice for such patients in my clinic:
1. Deworming with Albendazole at night single dose.
2. Iron supplements like Dexorange once daily.
3. Iron rich foods like dates, ragi, spinach, jaggery etc.
4. If no improvement consult your pediatrician to rule out other multivitamin deficiencies.

Hope I have answered your query.

Regards,
Dr. Arun
Pediatrician, Pulmonology
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. Nagamani Ng
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Answered by
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Dr. Arun

Pediatrician, Pulmonology

Practicing since :2003

Answered : 1964 Questions

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Why Would A 4-year-old Lick Dust From Metal Grills?

Brief Answer: Could be iron deficiency Detailed Answer: Hi, The symptoms you describe could be related to pica seen in iron deficiency anemia. I usually advice for such patients in my clinic: 1. Deworming with Albendazole at night single dose. 2. Iron supplements like Dexorange once daily. 3. Iron rich foods like dates, ragi, spinach, jaggery etc. 4. If no improvement consult your pediatrician to rule out other multivitamin deficiencies. Hope I have answered your query. Regards, Dr. Arun Pediatrician, Pulmonology