Ekbom’s Syndrome, also known as delusional parasitosis, is a rare psychiatric condition where an individual has a persistent false belief that their body is infested with parasites, bugs, or insects, despite there being no medical evidence to support this. It is classified as a delusional disorder under psychiatric criteria.
Ekbom’s Syndrome Causes –
- Primary Psychiatric Disorders
These are mental health conditions where the delusion of parasitic infestation is a direct symptom.
Schizophrenia:
Particularly the paranoid subtype, where individuals experience prominent delusions and hallucinations.
Dermatological Conditions:
Scabies, Dermatitis, or actual skin infestations may initially present similarly, leading to misinterpretation and subsequent delusional beliefs even after the condition is treated.
- Idiopathic Cases
Unknown Etiology:
In some instances, no clear underlying psychiatric or medical condition is identified. These cases are termed idiopathic.
Genetic predispositions, subtle neurological abnormalities, or undiscovered factors may play a role.
- Other Contributing Factors
Social Isolation:
Lack of social support and isolation can exacerbate or contribute to the development of delusional beliefs.
High Stress:
Chronic stress may trigger or worsen psychiatric symptoms, including delusions.
Personality Traits:
Certain personality disorders or traits may make individuals more susceptible to developing fixed false beliefs.
- Neurobiological Factors
Dopaminergic Dysfunction:
Similar to other psychotic disorders, imbalances in dopamine neurotransmission are implicated in delusional parasitosis.
Brain Structure and Function:
Alterations in specific brain regions involved in perception and belief formation may contribute to the development of delusions.
Ekbom’s Syndrome Symptoms –
- Persistent Delusions:
A strong belief in being infested with bugs, worms, or other parasites.
The individual may feel convinced of the infestation despite medical evidence to the contrary.
- Tactile Hallucinations:
Sensations of crawling, biting, or stinging on or under the skin.
- Skin Damage:
Self-inflicted wounds or sores caused by excessive scratching, picking, or attempts to remove the perceived parasites.
- Visual Hallucinations:
Some individuals may claim to see the parasites, often describing them in detail.
- Behavioral Symptoms:
Obsessive examination of skin, clothes, or environment for signs of infestation.
Collecting or presenting debris, dust, or fibers as “evidence” of the parasites.
- Emotional Distress:
High levels of anxiety, frustration, or depression due to the belief of infestation.
Social withdrawal and impaired daily functioning.
- Compulsive Cleaning:
Excessive washing or disinfecting of the body, clothes, or surroundings.
- Resistance to Reassurance:
Refusal to accept medical opinions or diagnostic results showing no evidence of parasites.
Ekbom’s Syndrome Treatment –
Homeopathy focuses on treating the individual holistically, aiming to balance physical, mental, and emotional health.
- Anacardium Orientale
For individuals with delusions, anxiety, or a sense of being persecuted.
Suitable for patients feeling a conflict between right and wrong.
- Stramonium
Used for extreme fear, hallucinations, or delusions.
Helps with restlessness and agitation.
- Hyoscyamus Niger
For obsessive behaviors, suspicion, and paranoia.
Addresses tactile hallucinations like crawling sensations on the skin.
- Sulphur
Commonly prescribed for itching, burning skin, or perceived skin infestations.
May help with skin-related complaints aggravated by scratching.
- Arsenicum Album
For individuals with extreme anxiety, restlessness, and fear of disease or contamination.
Can address symptoms of formication (sensation of insects crawling under the skin).
FAQ’S-
- How is Ekbom’s Syndrome diagnosed?
Ans-Thorough medical and dermatological exams to rule out actual infestations.
Psychological evaluation to assess for delusional thinking or underlying mental health disorders.
- Can Ekbom’s Syndrome be cured?
Ans-Symptoms can often be managed effectively with treatment. Long-term therapy and medication can help reduce delusional beliefs and improve quality of life.
- Who is most likely to develop Ekbom’s Syndrome?
Middle-aged or older adults.
Individuals with a history of mental health or neurological issues.
People with chronic illnesses or substance abuse problems.
- Is Ekbom’s Syndrome related to actual parasitic infestations?
Ans-No, the condition is psychological and not caused by actual parasites. However, the sensations experienced may feel very real to the person.
- How common is Ekbom’s Syndrome?
Ans-Ekbom’s Syndrome is rare, but exact prevalence rates are not well documented. It is often underdiagnosed due to stigma and lack of awareness.
In conclusion, Homeo Care Clinic offers a holistic approach to treating EKBOM’S SYNDROME. The remedies mentioned above can treat the underlying causes of the condition and offer relief from the discomfort. However, it is important to consult a qualified homeopathic practitioner for the correct dosage and duration of treatment. Homeo Care Clinic provides comprehensive care for various ailments and offers customized treatment plans based on individual requirements.
To schedule an appointment or learn more about our treatment, please visit our website or give us a call +91 9595211594 Our friendly staff will be happy to assist you. If you’re searching for the best homeopathy doctor, we are here to help.
Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram for valuable insights into the world of homeopathy and holistic health.
Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/homeocareclinicpune
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/homeocareclinic_in
Website – https://www.homeocareclinic.in
Chat with the best homeopathic doctor privately
If you have any queries regarding your disease or any symptoms, Click to send a WhatsApp message. Our best homeopathy doctor will be happy to answer you.
Book an Appointment
If you want to visit our clinic, Click to book an appointment.
Online treatment
If you are a busy professional, or you are living in a remote town or city, with no best homeopathic doctor near you, Clickhere to start an online homeopathic treatment with the world’s exclusive, most experienced, and best homeopathic clinic, managed by Dr. Vaseem Choudhary world-renowned homeopathic doctor