Formication, or parasitosis, is the sensation of having insects crawling on or under the skin.
Formication is a tactile hallucination, which means a person feels a physical sensation without a physical cause.
The name formication comes from the Latin word “formica,” which means ant.
Formication and feeling sensations on the skin with no physical stimulation are a type of paresthesia, which
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- schizophrenia
- bipolar disorder
- depression
- anxiety
- obsessive-compulsive disorder
- illness anxiety disorder
Other causes include:
- Neurologic conditions: Examples of these include multiple sclerosis, dementia, meningitis, encephalitis, and stroke.
- Medical conditions: Examples of these include hyperthyroidism, vitamin B12 deficiency, folate deficiency, diabetes, and neuropathy. Other examples include HIV, tuberculosis, syphilis, and Hansen’s disease.
- Substance misuse: This can include the use of cocaine and methamphetamines.
- Medications: Side effects of certain medications can cause formication. Medications include ciprofloxacin, steroids, ketoconazole, amantadine, and astopiramate.
Menopause can also cause formication.
Formication relating to drug withdrawal can be temporary and should resolve following recovery.
If the sensation continues or is very intense, it could be due to drug psychosis. This may cause a person to believe that they have an actual infestation of bugs in their skin.
Alcohol withdrawal can also cause formication. People may experience visual hallucinations as well as other symptoms. Therefore, it is best to consult a doctor or healthcare professional regarding alcohol withdrawal, as symptoms may be severe.
It is essential to give the doctor full and honest answers at the appointment so that they can provide an accurate diagnosis. They may want to know:
- any other symptoms that are present in addition to formication
- at what time of day the crawling sensations occur
- what was happening when the sensations first started
- any medication a person is taking
- whether a person has used any recreational drugs
- if a person drinks alcohol
A doctor might also want to rule out scabies. Scabies is an infection of tiny mites that burrow in the skin. They
Treatment for formication depends on the underlying cause. A topical cream with menthol might lessen the itching for some people. Moisturizers or barrier creams may also help by keeping the skin hydrated.
It could also be worth applying an ice pack to the affected areas, which can provide a soothing effect and immediate relief.
If the cause of the formication is due to a medical condition or mental health condition, a doctor will prescribe appropriate medication and may create a long-term treatment plan.
If medication is the cause, a doctor can usually recommend alternatives.
If formication relates to recreational drug use, quitting and finding professional support for withdrawal can resolve symptoms.
Antipsychotic medications may be helpful for those who experience formication that does not develop due to a medical or neurological cause.
If a person is experiencing formication, they may be prone to constant scratching. This can break the skin, which can allow bacteria to enter and possibly cause infections to develop.
Other complications of formication include:
- tiredness
- frustration
- issues with sleep quality
- depression
- anxiety
- problems concentrating
- aching or feeling stiff
It is important to seek medical advice for any complications. Feeling tired or depressed can worsen formication.
Formication is a symptom of an underlying condition, so fully treating this condition typically removes the symptoms. The condition may be physical, psychological, or related to substance misuse.
If the cause is not apparent, screening out possible conditions could detect something that doctors have previously undiagnosed.
Speaking openly and honestly with a doctor will allow them to develop a personalized treatment plan to improve the condition as soon as possible.
Formication refers to the sensation of ants crawling on or under the skin. Although there is a physical sensation, there is no physical cause.
Feeling sensations without a physical cause is a type of paresthesia. Potential causes include Parkinson’s disease, anxiety, perimenopause, and schizophrenia, among others. A person may also experience formication while experiencing alcohol withdrawal.
A person needs to contact a doctor and be honest about any symptoms and potential causes during the appointment to receive an accurate diagnosis.
Treatment will depend on the underlying cause. However, a person may be able to soothe symptoms using topical creams and moisturizers and applying cool packs.