Formication is a distressing sensory hallucination where a person experiences the sensation of insects crawling on, in, or under their skin. This tactile hallucination can be quite disturbing and can lead to significant discomfort.
Understanding Formication
Formication is not an actual infestation; it's a perception of crawling insects, despite there being no insects present. This symptom can be very upsetting and lead to further issues.
Key Characteristics of Formication:
- Tactile Hallucination: The primary symptom is the feeling of insects moving on the skin.
- Location: These sensations can occur anywhere on the body.
- Distress: This condition is often bothersome and can be associated with significant psychological distress.
Potential Impacts
The intense feeling associated with formication can cause several issues for individuals:
- Self-Injury: Some people may resort to scratching their skin excessively, trying to get rid of the perceived insects, which can result in skin damage, sores, and increased risk of infection.
- Anxiety: This symptom often leads to feelings of anxiety, fear and paranoia.
- Sleep Disruption: The constant feeling of insects crawling may interfere with sleep patterns and cause exhaustion.
Formication: A Summary Table
Aspect | Description |
---|---|
Definition | A hallucination of insects crawling on, in, or under the skin. |
Nature | A tactile hallucination, not a physical infestation. |
Impacts | Can lead to self-injury, anxiety, sleep disruption. |
Source | Primarily neurological or psychiatric. |
Causes and Treatment
Formication can be a symptom of a variety of medical and psychological conditions. It is not always clear what causes it in an individual case. It's important to consult with a medical professional for proper diagnosis and treatment, as formication can be a symptom of an underlying condition.