Formication: Difference between revisions
From WikiMD's Wellness Encyclopedia
CSV import |
CSV import |
||
| Line 1: | Line 1: | ||
{{Short description|A sensation of insects crawling on or under the skin}} | |||
{{Medical condition}} | |||
== | ==Formication== | ||
[[File:Tactile_hallucination.jpg|thumb|right|Illustration of tactile hallucination, often associated with formication.]] | |||
'''Formication''' is a specific type of [[tactile hallucination]] that involves the sensation of insects crawling on or under the skin. This phenomenon is often described as a feeling of "pins and needles" or "creepy-crawlies" and can be associated with a variety of medical conditions and psychological states. | |||
Formication can be caused by | ==Causes== | ||
Formication can be caused by several factors, including: | |||
* | * [[Neurological disorders]] such as [[multiple sclerosis]] or [[peripheral neuropathy]]. | ||
* | * [[Substance use disorders]], particularly with drugs such as [[methamphetamine]] or [[cocaine]]. | ||
* | * [[Menopause]], due to hormonal changes affecting the skin. | ||
* [[Psychiatric conditions]] like [[delusional parasitosis]] or severe [[anxiety disorders]]. | |||
* [[Skin conditions]] such as [[scabies]] or [[dermatitis]]. | |||
== Symptoms == | ==Symptoms== | ||
The primary symptom of formication is the sensation of insects crawling on or under the skin. This can lead to: | |||
* Intense itching or scratching. | |||
* Skin lesions or sores from excessive scratching. | |||
* Anxiety or distress due to the persistent sensation. | |||
== | ==Diagnosis== | ||
Diagnosing formication involves a thorough medical history and physical examination. Healthcare providers may consider: | |||
* Reviewing the patient's medication and substance use history. | |||
* Conducting neurological examinations to rule out underlying disorders. | |||
* Evaluating psychological health to identify any psychiatric conditions. | |||
== | ==Treatment== | ||
Treatment for formication depends on the underlying cause. Options may include: | |||
* | * Discontinuing or changing medications that may be causing the sensation. | ||
* | * Treating any underlying skin conditions. | ||
* | * Addressing substance use issues through rehabilitation programs. | ||
* Providing psychological support or therapy for associated mental health conditions. | |||
== | ==Prognosis== | ||
The prognosis for individuals experiencing formication varies based on the underlying cause. With appropriate treatment, many individuals can find relief from symptoms. However, chronic conditions may require ongoing management. | |||
==Related pages== | |||
* [[Tactile hallucination]] | |||
* [[Delusional parasitosis]] | |||
* [[Peripheral neuropathy]] | |||
* [[Substance use disorder]] | |||
[[Category:Medical | [[Category:Medical signs]] | ||
[[Category: | [[Category:Neurology]] | ||
[[Category: | [[Category:Psychiatry]] | ||
Revision as of 11:33, 15 February 2025
A sensation of insects crawling on or under the skin
| Medical conditions | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
This medical condition related article is a stub. You can help WikiMD by expanding it.
|
Formication
Formication is a specific type of tactile hallucination that involves the sensation of insects crawling on or under the skin. This phenomenon is often described as a feeling of "pins and needles" or "creepy-crawlies" and can be associated with a variety of medical conditions and psychological states.
Causes
Formication can be caused by several factors, including:
- Neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis or peripheral neuropathy.
- Substance use disorders, particularly with drugs such as methamphetamine or cocaine.
- Menopause, due to hormonal changes affecting the skin.
- Psychiatric conditions like delusional parasitosis or severe anxiety disorders.
- Skin conditions such as scabies or dermatitis.
Symptoms
The primary symptom of formication is the sensation of insects crawling on or under the skin. This can lead to:
- Intense itching or scratching.
- Skin lesions or sores from excessive scratching.
- Anxiety or distress due to the persistent sensation.
Diagnosis
Diagnosing formication involves a thorough medical history and physical examination. Healthcare providers may consider:
- Reviewing the patient's medication and substance use history.
- Conducting neurological examinations to rule out underlying disorders.
- Evaluating psychological health to identify any psychiatric conditions.
Treatment
Treatment for formication depends on the underlying cause. Options may include:
- Discontinuing or changing medications that may be causing the sensation.
- Treating any underlying skin conditions.
- Addressing substance use issues through rehabilitation programs.
- Providing psychological support or therapy for associated mental health conditions.
Prognosis
The prognosis for individuals experiencing formication varies based on the underlying cause. With appropriate treatment, many individuals can find relief from symptoms. However, chronic conditions may require ongoing management.
