Eating Drywall Side Effects

Drywall is a common building material used in homes and buildings around the world. However, some people may have a strange craving to eat drywall, which can be harmful to their health. In this blog post, we will discuss the possible side effects of eating drywall, the reasons behind this unusual behavior, and how to manage the symptoms.

Why Do People Eat Drywall?

Pica is a condition that causes individuals to crave and consume non-food items, such as drywall, dirt, and paint chips. While it is not fully understood why some people develop pica, there are several potential reasons behind this behavior.

One possible cause of pica is a nutritional deficiency, particularly in iron or zinc. People with iron-deficiency anemia may crave non-food items, such as ice or clay, while those with zinc deficiency may crave substances with a gritty texture, such as dirt or sand. Similarly, pregnant women may develop pica due to iron or other nutrient deficiencies.

Mental health disorders, such as obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), autism spectrum disorder, and schizophrenia, have also been linked to pica. In some cases, the act of eating non-food items may provide a sense of comfort or control for individuals with these conditions.

In rare cases, pica may be related to a developmental disorder or brain injury. Overall, the exact cause of pica can vary and may require a thorough evaluation by a healthcare professional.

Common Side Effects of Eating Drywall:

Eating drywall, or any non-food item, can have several adverse effects on the body. Here are some of the most common side effects of eating drywall:

1. Gastrointestinal problems: Consuming drywall can lead to gastrointestinal issues such as abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, constipation, and diarrhea. These symptoms can be caused by the drywall blocking the digestive tract or by the chemicals present in the drywall irritating the lining of the stomach and intestines.
2. Tooth damage and gum irritation: Eating drywall can cause significant damage to teeth and gums. The drywall can grind against the teeth, causing chips or cracks, and can also cause gum irritation.
3. Choking and breathing difficulties: Eating drywall can increase the risk of choking and breathing difficulties. The drywall may get stuck in the throat, blocking the airway, and making it difficult to breathe.
4. Blockages in the digestive tract: The ingestion of drywall can cause blockages in the digestive tract. This blockage can be life-threatening and may require surgical intervention.

The onset and duration of these side effects can vary depending on the amount of drywall ingested and the individual’s overall health. Some symptoms may appear immediately, while others may take several hours or days to develop.

To manage or reduce the severity of these side effects, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately if you suspect someone has ingested drywall. In case of emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department. It is also essential to discourage the behavior and seek professional help for underlying conditions that may contribute to pica. A healthcare professional can provide proper treatment, including medications or behavioral therapy, to address the underlying cause of pica.

Serious Side Effects of Eating Drywall:

Ingesting drywall can lead to serious side effects that require immediate medical attention. Here are some of the most serious side effects of eating drywall:

1. Lead poisoning from the paint on drywall: Many drywalls contain lead-based paint that can cause lead poisoning. Lead poisoning can cause symptoms such as stomach pain, headaches, memory loss, and irritability. Long-term exposure to lead can also cause permanent damage to the brain and nervous system.
2. Intestinal perforation and infection: Ingesting drywall can lead to the formation of sharp edges that can perforate the intestinal lining. This can lead to infection and even sepsis. Symptoms of intestinal perforation include severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and fever.
3. Severe nutritional deficiencies: Eating non-food items can interfere with the body’s ability to absorb nutrients from food, leading to severe nutritional deficiencies. This can cause symptoms such as fatigue, weakness, and hair loss.

The onset and duration of these side effects can vary depending on the amount of drywall ingested and the individual’s overall health. It is crucial to seek medical attention immediately if you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms. In case of emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency department.

It is essential to avoid consuming non-food items, such as drywall, to prevent these serious side effects. Seeking help from a healthcare professional for underlying conditions, such as pica or nutritional deficiencies, is also critical. A healthcare professional can provide proper treatment, including medications or behavioral therapy, to address the underlying cause of pica and prevent further complications.

Precautions and Safety Measures:

Preventing and managing pica is crucial to avoid the serious side effects associated with eating non-food items such as drywall. Here are some tips for preventing and managing pica:

1. Treating any underlying health conditions or nutritional deficiencies: Addressing underlying health conditions or nutritional deficiencies that may be causing pica is essential to manage the condition. A healthcare professional can help determine the underlying cause and provide appropriate treatment.
2. Keeping non-food items out of reach: Keeping non-food items, including drywall, out of reach can help prevent accidental ingestion. This is especially important for children and individuals with cognitive or developmental disabilities.
3. Seeking professional help for mental health disorders: Pica can sometimes be associated with mental health disorders such as obsessive-compulsive disorder or autism spectrum disorder. Seeking help from a mental health professional can provide appropriate treatment, including behavioral therapy, to manage these conditions and prevent pica.
4. Information about the dangers of eating drywall and why it should be avoided: Educating individuals about the dangers of eating drywall can help prevent the ingestion of this harmful substance. It is important to emphasize the serious side effects associated with ingesting drywall, including lead poisoning, intestinal perforation, and severe nutritional deficiencies.

In addition to these precautions, it is essential to seek immediate medical attention if drywall or any other non-food item is ingested. Medical professionals can help assess the severity of the situation and provide appropriate treatment to prevent further complications.

Overall, preventing and managing pica is crucial to avoid the serious side effects associated with eating non-food items such as drywall. Seeking professional help, keeping non-food items out of reach, and educating individuals about the dangers of eating non-food items are all important steps in preventing and managing pica.

Conclusion:

Eating drywall may seem like a harmless habit, but it can lead to serious health problems. By understanding the potential side effects of eating drywall and taking precautions to manage them, you can avoid the dangers of this unusual behavior. If you or someone you know is struggling with pica, seek professional help to address any underlying health conditions or mental health disorders. As always, if you experience any concerning symptoms, consult with your healthcare provider immediately.

Citations and References:

Sources:

1. American Psychiatric Association. (2013). Diagnostic and statistical manual of mental disorders (5th ed.). Arlington, VA: American Psychiatric Publishing.
2. Harvard Health Publishing. (2019, November). Pica: How to handle eating disorder in which people crave and eat nonfood items. Harvard Health Blog. https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/pica-how-to-handle-eating-disorder-in-which-people-crave-and-eat-nonfood-items-2019111418261
3. National Institute of Mental Health. (2018, July). Pica. https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/topics/pica/index.shtml
4. Sharma, A., Sharma, R., & Singh, V. P. (2017). Pica: A common eating disorder in northern region of India. Journal of family medicine and primary care, 6(1), 44–47. https://doi.org/10.4103/2249-4863.214984
5. World Health Organization. (2010). Nutritional anaemias: Tools for effective prevention and control. Geneva: World Health Organization.
6. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021, February). Lead poisoning prevention. https://www.cdc.gov/nceh/lead/prevention/default.htm

Further Reading:

1. National Eating Disorders Association. (n.d.). Pica. https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/learn/by-eating-disorder/other/pica
2. Taylor, M. R., Holland, C. L., & Lupton, M. K. (2019). Understanding and treating pica: A review. Advances in Pediatrics, 66(1), 1-14. doi: 10.1016/j.yapd.2019.04.001
3. Zarcone, J. R., Iwata, B. A., Smith, R. G., Mazaleski, J. L., & Lerman, D. C. (1993). Assessment and treatment of pathological self-injury in the developmentally disabled. Journal of Applied Behavior Analysis, 26(1), 9–21. https://doi.org/10.1901/jaba.1993.26-9