Formication
Definition: Formication is a tactile hallucination that gives a false sensation of insects crawling on or under the skin.
Symptoms
Physical Sensations: Individuals experiencing formication may report feelings of tingling, itching, or crawling sensations on their skin.
Visual Hallucinations: Sometimes, those affected may also have visual hallucinations of insects or bugs crawling on their body.
Psychological Distress: Formication can be distressing and cause anxiety, leading to constant scratching or picking at the skin.
Causes
Substance Use: Formication can occur as a result of drug use, especially stimulants such as cocaine or methamphetamine.
Withdrawal: During withdrawal from certain substances, like alcohol or sedatives, formication can manifest as part of the withdrawal syndrome.
Psychiatric Disorders: Conditions such as schizophrenia, delusional disorder, or bipolar disorder may be associated with formication.
Neurological Conditions: Some neurological disorders, including Parkinson’s disease or multiple sclerosis, may also cause formication.
Treatment
Addressing Underlying Cause: Treating the underlying cause, such as substance abuse or neurological disorder, is key to managing formication.
Medication: In some cases, medications like antipsychotics or anti-anxiety drugs may be prescribed to alleviate the symptoms.
Therapies: Psychological therapies, including cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) or mindfulness-based techniques, can help individuals cope with formication and reduce distress.
Note: It is important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis and appropriate treatment for formication.