Pagophagia
Pagophagia is a medical condition characterized by the compulsive consumption of ice. The term is derived from the Greek words "pagos," meaning ice, and "phagein," meaning to eat. Individuals with pagophagia have a strong craving for ice and may chew on ice cubes or crushed ice throughout the day.
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
People with pagophagia may exhibit the following symptoms:
- Persistent craving for ice
- Frequent consumption of ice, often to the exclusion of other foods or beverages
- Compulsive chewing on ice
- Preference for specific types of ice, such as crushed ice or ice cubes
Causes[edit | edit source]
The exact cause of pagophagia is not well understood. However, it is believed to be associated with certain underlying medical conditions, including:
- Iron deficiency anemia
- Pica, a disorder characterized by the consumption of non-nutritive substances
- Stress or anxiety
Diagnosis[edit | edit source]
Pagophagia is typically diagnosed based on a thorough medical history and physical examination. Blood tests may be conducted to assess for underlying conditions such as iron deficiency anemia.
Treatment[edit | edit source]
Treatment for pagophagia focuses on addressing any underlying medical conditions that may be contributing to the compulsive ice consumption. This may include:
- Iron supplementation for individuals with iron deficiency anemia
- Counseling or therapy to address underlying psychological factors
- Behavioral interventions to help individuals reduce their ice consumption
Complications[edit | edit source]
Complications of pagophagia may include:
- Dental problems, such as tooth enamel erosion or damage to dental restorations
- Gastrointestinal issues, such as stomach pain or bloating
- Nutritional deficiencies due to the displacement of nutrient-rich foods by ice consumption
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Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD