Hyperesthesia
Hyperesthesia
Hyperesthesia (pronounced: hi-per-es-thee-zha) is a condition characterized by an abnormal increase in sensitivity to stimuli of the sense.
Etymology
The term originates from the Greek words hyper meaning "over" and aisthesis meaning "sensation".
Definition
Hyperesthesia can refer to an increase in any type of sensation, including touch, sound, sight, smell, or taste. It can affect one or multiple senses. This condition can be a symptom of various medical conditions, including fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome, post-traumatic stress disorder, and shingles.
Symptoms
Symptoms of hyperesthesia can vary greatly depending on the sense or senses affected. They may include:
- Increased sensitivity to touch, leading to discomfort or pain from stimuli that would not normally cause such a reaction.
- Increased sensitivity to sound, resulting in discomfort or pain from noises that would not normally be problematic.
- Increased sensitivity to light, causing discomfort or pain from levels of light that would not normally be an issue.
Causes
Hyperesthesia can be caused by a variety of conditions, including:
- Neurological disorders: Conditions that affect the nervous system, such as multiple sclerosis or neuropathy, can cause hyperesthesia.
- Psychiatric disorders: Conditions such as anxiety and depression can also cause hyperesthesia.
- Infections: Certain infections, such as Lyme disease, can result in hyperesthesia.
- Medications: Some medications can cause hyperesthesia as a side effect.
Treatment
Treatment for hyperesthesia typically involves addressing the underlying cause. This may involve medication to manage symptoms, therapy to help cope with the increased sensitivity, or changes in lifestyle to avoid triggering the heightened sensitivity.
Related Terms
- Hypoesthesia: A decrease in sensitivity to stimuli.
- Allodynia: A condition in which non-painful stimuli cause pain.
- Dysesthesia: A condition characterized by abnormal sensations, such as burning or tingling.
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Hyperesthesia
- Wikipedia's article - Hyperesthesia
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