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Dr. Andrew Rynne
MD
Dr. Andrew Rynne

Family Physician

Exp 50 years

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What Are The Harmful Effects Of Eating Slate Pencils?

hi, my cousin has this crazy urge to eat slate pencils. She has been doing this for many years, probably 6 to 10 years and that too in a very harmful quantity, and i found it out recently.

So, can you please tell me how much will it harm her and if there are much threats or diseases that follow. Also, she isn't suffering from much loss of appetite though i am not sure about other side effects, and neither is she.

Thank You
posted on Fri, 14 Mar 2014
Twitter Tue, 12 Aug 2014 Answered on
Twitter Wed, 13 Aug 2014 Last reviewed on
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General & Family Physician,  's  Response
Hello dear,

Slate pencils contains calcium carbonate which if taken in excessive amount can cause stone formation in kidneys.
The continuous craving for eating inedible substances (like chalk, slate pencils) is known as Pica.
It is one of the features of Iron deficiency anemia.

Investigations like complete blood count & peripheral blood smear will be helpful in clinching the diagnosis.
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 your cousin needs to take a healthy balanced diet rich in green leafy vegetables.

So, kindly consult her General Physician for proper clinical evaluation.
Wishing a good health.
Take care.
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What Are The Harmful Effects Of Eating Slate Pencils?

Hello dear, Slate pencils contains calcium carbonate which if taken in excessive amount can cause stone formation in kidneys. The continuous craving for eating inedible substances (like chalk, slate pencils) is known as Pica. It is one of the features of Iron deficiency anemia. Investigations like complete blood count & peripheral blood smear will be helpful in clinching the diagnosis. 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 your cousin needs to take a healthy balanced diet rich in green leafy vegetables. So, kindly consult her General Physician for proper clinical evaluation. Wishing a good health. Take care.