Autistic child eating things that are not food?

My seven year old autistic son has recently started eating his brother's toys. He ate an entire styrofoam sword before we knew what he was doing. First, is this dangerous? Second, why is he doing this?

I suspect he ate the sword because his brother liked to try to play with him with it, and he didn't like that, but I can't explain him eating the hands off action figures, and the rubber snake, which he ate entirely. (He said he wanted the snake to be dead.)

He does have sensory issues, but why is he eating only his brother's toys, not his own?

Answer:
My daughter does the same. It's called "pica." I don't know the cause but you might do a search on that word.

The medicine and health information post by website user , ByeDR.com not guarantee correctness , is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice or treatment for any medical conditions.


More Questions and Answers...
  • Very fat man looking for group to support weight gain?
  • Does anyone know a natural cure for alopecia which i have all over my body?
  • Help constipated!?
  • Sometimes my Urine smells like Tuna, does anyone has an explanation?
  • How much damage can late nights realy do?
  • I found a tick on me...now what?
  • Is this true? Maximum limits set on vitamins?
  • How do you dispose of prescription medications?
  • Does conjunctivitis....?
  • Do I eve have a cold? I have no green mucus from my nose but have other symtoms. (read more)?
  • Icu Care in Hospital?
  • Difference between Phentermine and Phentramin...?
  • Fried chicken?