I'm really worried about my sister who's 27 years old. She eats a lot of slate pencils every day, and when she doesn't, she gets really uneasy, irritated, and spends a lot of time thinking about it. I feel like I need to help her. What can I do to save her from this? Could this be harmful to her health in the long run?

Dr Mubarak Parveez B

General Practitioner

• MBBS
• 2+ Yrs

Consult Now

Encourage your sister to seek professional help. Excessive salt pencil consumption can lead to:

Health Risks

1. Mineral imbalance (sodium, potassium)
2. Dehydration
3. Electrolyte imbalance
4. Anxiety, irritability, and mood swings
5. Digestive issues (nausea, vomiting)

Steps to Help

1. Consult a doctor or nutritionist.
2. Monitor sodium intake.
3. Gradually reduce salt pencil consumption.
4. Encourage balanced diet and hydration.
5. Support emotional well-being through counseling or therapy.

Emergency Signs

1. Severe vomiting or diarrhea.
2. Abdominal pain.
3. Confusion or disorientation.
4. Seizures.

Resources

1. National Health Service (NHS) Helpline.
2. Local mental health support groups.
3. Online resources (e.g., National Eating Disorders Association).

Your Role

1. Supportive listening.
2. Encourage professional help.
3. Help track sodium intake.
4. Foster a balanced lifestyle.

Answered 04/07/2025