Notalgia paresthetica
Notalgia Paresthetica (pronounced noh-TAL-jah par-es-THET-ick-uh) is a medical condition characterized by chronic itching, tingling, stinging, or numbness in the skin, typically in the area of the upper back. The term is derived from the Greek words "notos" meaning back and "algos" meaning pain.
Symptoms
The primary symptom of Notalgia Paresthetica is chronic itching in the upper back, usually on one side but occasionally on both sides. Other symptoms may include:
- Tingling or numbness
- Hyperpigmentation (darkening of the skin)
- Hypopigmentation (lightening of the skin)
- Skin thickening
Causes
The exact cause of Notalgia Paresthetica is unknown, but it is believed to be related to a problem with the sensory nerves in the skin. It is often associated with:
- Degenerative disc disease
- Spinal nerve impingement
- Poor posture
- Muscle spasm
Diagnosis
Diagnosis of Notalgia Paresthetica is typically based on the patient's symptoms and physical examination. Imaging tests such as MRI or CT scan may be used to rule out other conditions.
Treatment
Treatment for Notalgia Paresthetica primarily involves managing symptoms. This may include:
- Topical treatments such as capsaicin cream or lidocaine patches
- Physical therapy
- Nerve block injections
- Antidepressants or anticonvulsants for nerve pain
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Notalgia paresthetica
- Wikipedia's article - Notalgia paresthetica
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