Once the diagnosis is made, at the pediatrician's discretion, it is advisable to monitor the person's health status since pica can carry various health risks :

• Nutritional problems.
• Electrolyte deficiency, which occurs when the concentration of sodium in the blood is abnormally low.
• Dental erosion, which may include discoloration or wear of the teeth and tooth sensitivity.
• Gastrointestinal complications, such as parasitic infections, constipation, or diarrhea.
• Toxicity.
• Anemia, lack of iron in the blood.

In general, laboratory tests are usually performed to determine the cause of pica, as well as parasitological examinations to minimize physical risks. In some cases, iron replacement therapy is prescribed if anemia is present, or zinc supplementation if low levels of this nutrient are detected. Occasionally, a nutritionist's evaluation is also recommended to understand and address dietary habits, especially in cases of highly selective eating. Furthermore, the therapeutic approach includes a behavioral assessment and intervention to identify pica triggers. Behavioral interventions include environmental control, promotion of alternative coping strategies, promotion of behavior reduction strategies, and differential reinforcement strategies (withholding reinforcement, or extinguishing, inappropriate pica-related behaviors and reinforcing alternative and incompatible behaviors related to the problematic behavior).