Formication -The feeling of little bugs crawling under your skin
What is formication?
Formication is a tactile hallucination that feels like little bugs are crawling under your skin. Note, however, that sometimes the problem is real and there are actually little bugs present, in which case you will need a treatment that kills these parasites or other responsible microbes.
Causes
Can be associated with / caused by:
- Stress
- Onset of menopause / Hormone withdrawal – some association with hormonal birth control
- Certain medical conditions E.g. diabetic neuropathy, skin cancer, syphilis, herpes zoster, Lyme’s disease
- Taking steroids, antibiotics, some other drugs E.g. Prednisone
- Pesticide exposure, mercury poisining
- Chronic substance abuse (E.g. of cocaine, amphetamines, crystal meth), extreme alcohol withdrawal
