why do i feel like something is crawling on me

The sensation of feeling like something is crawling on your skin, known as formication, is a type of tactile hallucination where you feel a crawling sensation without a physical cause. It can be caused by various factors including medical conditions such as fibromyalgia, Parkinson's disease, diabetic neuropathy, or nerve damage; mental health disorders like anxiety or psychosis; withdrawal from drugs or alcohol; certain medications; and even menopause or vitamin deficiencies. Formication can also be triggered by the brain misinterpreting sensory signals, leading to a real feeling of crawling or itching that may cause scratching and skin damage despite no actual insects being present. It can occur alongside other symptoms depending on its underlying cause, such as aches, fatigue, or nervous system issues. If this feeling persists or worsens, it is important to consult a healthcare professional for proper diagnosis and treatment based on the specific cause.