Delusions of parasitosis is the sensation of bugs crawling on or under the skin. The name ‘formication’ comes from the Latin word ‘formica’ , which means ant. It is a tactile hallucination, which means that the person suffering from this psychosis feels a physical sensation, but there is no physical cause. The sensation can cause itching, which can be worse at night and can be severe enough to affect the quality of life of the sufferer.
Feeling sensations on the skin without physical stimulation is a type of paresthesia, which can also include burning, tingling, numbness, and cold. This strange delirium is related to other medical conditions, as well as the cessation of some drugs and substances (such as cocaine, heroin, some antidepressants or pain relievers such as codeine and morphine). Alcohol withdrawal can also cause it.
All those with Ekbom syndrome can hold the idea with great conviction that they have parasites on their skin for a long time , even after scientific proof through medical examinations, for example, that this is not the case. If these conditions exist, in which the subject is unable to see reality, the alteration would be classified as a delusional disorder proper.
Causes of Ekbom syndrome
-Parkinson’s disease
-herpes
-fibromyalgia
-anxiety
-perimenopause
-Lyme’s desease
-diabetic neuropathy
-skin cancer
-schizophrenia
It is possible that low levels of estrogen during perimenopause and menopause can also cause this delirium.
Treatment
Treatment for the formation will depend on the underlying cause. A topical cream, such as hydrocortisone, can decrease itching in some people. Moisturizing or barrier creams can also help by keeping skin healthy and hydrated.
It is also advisable to place an ice pack on the affected areas, which can provide a calming effect for immediate relief.
If the cause of the formication is Parkinson’s disease, shingles or fibromyalgia, a specialist will prescribe the appropriate medication.
If the cause is medication, doctors will recommend alternatives such as an antihistamine, which can help reduce the sensations of formication.
Possible complications
If a person experiences this delusional-type disorder, they may be prone to constant scratching, which can break the skin and allow bacteria to enter and possibly cause infections to develop.
Possible complications of scratching include:
-gangrene
-lockjaw
-fever
-loss of blood
-in severe cases, sepsis
Other complications of training include: tiredness, frustration, poor quality of sleep, depression, anxiety, trouble concentrating, or feeling stiff.
It is important to seek medical advice for any complications, as feeling tired or depressed can make the formication worse.
Ekbom syndrome is a symptom of an underlying condition as we have seen, so full treatment of this condition should normally eliminate the symptoms. The condition can be physical, psychological, or related to substance abuse. If the cause is not apparent, screening for possible conditions could detect something previously undiagnosed. Hence, speaking openly and honestly with a doctor will allow them to develop a personalized treatment plan to improve the condition as soon as possible.
