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Hyperesthesia is a rare condition where individuals become highly sensitized to sensory stimuli, which can cause intense and sometimes unbearable sensations. It can be caused by neurological changes or brain damage, and treatment may involve medications. In animals, it can cause behavioral problems and skin sensitivity, and a veterinarian can provide treatment recommendations.
Hyperesthesia is a condition in which someone becomes highly sensitized to sensory stimuli. Individuals with hyperesthesia can experience sensations without input and may find the sensory stimulation extremely intense and sometimes almost unbearable. This condition is quite rare and, in addition to being seen in humans, is also seen in cats and dogs. In animals, this disorder can cause behavioral problems, including biting, snapping, and self-mutilation.
The causes are not well understood. It is sometimes associated with neurological changes and brain damage, as might happen when someone has a brain tumor, a degenerative neurological condition, or neuropathy. Tactile hyperesthesia, which involves extreme sensitivity of the skin, is often linked to chronic neuropathies and neurological conditions.
People can also experience hypersensitivity to hearing, smell, sight and taste in addition to touch. In some cases, the condition appears to be triggered by overstimulation of the area of the brain involved in sensation, in which case the hyperesthesia should resolve within a few hours. While the patient is experiencing symptoms, it may be helpful to lie down in a cool, quiet, dark place. Some patients find breathing exercises and massage helpful, while others prefer to simply lie down in silence while they recover.
If the disorder appears to be caused by a chronic problem, a neurologist may conduct an examination to learn more about the specifics and to look for possible causes. Medications such as pain relievers for dull feeling, anti-epileptic drugs, and anti-anxiety drugs can sometimes help patients with this condition. These medications can reduce the intensity of sensations and keep the patient more comfortable.
When someone has hyperesthesia, it’s a good idea to make an appointment with a neurologist for an interview and exam. Some serious conditions may present in the form of hyperesthesia in the early stages and the prognosis for the patient will improve substantially if treatment is provided as soon as possible.
In animals, the disorder often manifests itself in the form of increased sensitivity of the skin. The skin may wrinkle or tighten, especially when touched, and the animal may react intensely to being handled or touched. Some animals bite, lick or scratch their own skin, leading to the development of bald spots or ulcerations, and the animal may snap, bark or hiss when touched. A veterinarian can evaluate the pet and make treatment recommendations that will address the condition. During treatment, your pet may need to wear an electronic collar to avoid biting and licking.
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