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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Causes Craving Of Eating Soaked Rice?

i have developed a craving of eating soaked rice. i am anemic and have dark circles under my eye. Is it because of this rice addiction???.What can i do to get rid of this craving???age:22, height:5'6, medical history: i have remained anemic since the age of 13.
Tue, 24 Jun 2014
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General & Family Physician 's  Response
Hello dear,

Though eating of soaked rice may not cause you any acute health issue per se (except may be episodic pain in abdomen), it can be a feature of an underlying pathological condition.
The continuous craving for eating such inedible substances is known as Pica.
It is one of the features of Iron deficiency anemia.
Given the history that you have remained anemic since the age of 13, it further substantiates the diagnosis.

Investigations like complete blood count & peripheral blood smear will be helpful in assessment of degree of anemia.
Based on the reports, management will include administration of supplemental Iron & Folic acid preparations.
There can be associated factors like hookworm infection which needs to be managed with Albendazole preparations.
Also you need to take a healthy balanced diet rich in green leafy vegetables.

So, kindly consult your General Physician for proper clinical evaluation.
Wishing you a good health.
Take care.
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What Causes Craving Of Eating Soaked Rice?

Hello dear, Though eating of soaked rice may not cause you any acute health issue per se (except may be episodic pain in abdomen), it can be a feature of an underlying pathological condition. The continuous craving for eating such inedible substances is known as Pica. It is one of the features of Iron deficiency anemia. Given the history that you have remained anemic since the age of 13, it further substantiates the diagnosis. Investigations like complete blood count & peripheral blood smear will be helpful in assessment of degree of anemia. Based on the reports, management will include administration of supplemental Iron & Folic acid preparations. There can be associated factors like hookworm infection which needs to be managed with Albendazole preparations. Also you need to take a healthy balanced diet rich in green leafy vegetables. So, kindly consult your General Physician for proper clinical evaluation. Wishing you a good health. Take care.