HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

Get your health question answered instantly from our pool of 18000+ doctors from over 80 specialties
159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM BlogQuestions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction

What Causes The Child To Eat Papers, Crayons And Erasers?

My 6 year old has been eating paper and erasers off of pencils (at home). His teacher recently commented that he was eating crayons and pencils at school. From what I ve gathered this May be Pica. My question is should I start him on daily vitamins or set up a doctors appointment? Also, could this be a result of family issues or disorganized family structure? (I recently read this too but the source was not cited so unknown if reliable). We have had the paper issue come up before but the crayons and pencils are new.
Wed, 22 Oct 2014
Report Abuse
Pediatrician, Pulmonology 's  Response
Hi...you are right. This could be pica. But instead of multivitamins I suggest you use iron supplements. As this is a prescription medicine in many countries you need to consult your pediatrician.
This could also be because of family issues... But you can try iron supplements first.
Regards - Dr. Sumanth
I find this answer helpful

Note: For further queries related to your child health, Talk to a Pediatrician. Click here to Book a Consultation.
Disclaimer: These answers are for your information only and not intended to replace your relationship with your treating physician.
This is a short, free answer. For a more detailed, immediate answer, try our premium service [Sample answer]
Share on
 

Related questions you may be interested in


Loading Online Doctors....
What Causes The Child To Eat Papers, Crayons And Erasers?

Hi...you are right. This could be pica. But instead of multivitamins I suggest you use iron supplements. As this is a prescription medicine in many countries you need to consult your pediatrician. This could also be because of family issues... But you can try iron supplements first. Regards - Dr. Sumanth