Understanding Formication: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment Options

Formication is a sensation of insects crawling on or under the skin. It is a relatively common symptom that can occur in a variety of medical conditions, including:

1. Skin conditions: Conditions such as eczema, psoriasis, and dermatitis can cause formication.
2. Neurological disorders: Conditions such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, and peripheral neuropathy can cause formication.
3. Infections: Bacterial, viral, and fungal infections can cause formication.
4. Medications: Certain medications, such as antidepressants and antipsychotics, can cause formication as a side effect.
5. Withdrawal: Withdrawal from certain substances, such as alcohol and benzodiazepines, can cause formication.
6. Other causes: Formication can also be caused by other factors such as heat, cold, or pressure on the skin.

It is important to note that formication can be a symptom of an underlying medical condition, so if you are experiencing this sensation, it is recommended that you speak with a healthcare professional to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.