Menopause and Skin Sensations: Understanding Crawling Skin (Paresthesia)

When estrogen levels drop in a menopausal woman, the body reacts. Some women experience the sensation of crawling skin.

Paresthesia

• This condition is called paresthesia, and it can be intensified by menopause, according to My-menopause-symptoms.com.

Estrogen's Role

• The loss of estrogen results in less collagen production, and this can cause skin to become thinner, dry and more sensitive.

Sensitivity

• When skin becomes extremely sensitive, this is when the crawling, tingling and pins-and-needles sensations may occur.

Exercise

• Exercising may reduce these sensations, because increased physical activity increases blood flow to the nerves.

Herbs or HRT

• Consider using herbs that reduce menopausal symptoms, including the crawling sensations. Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) may also help; HRT reintroduces estrogen and progesterone into your body. However, remember that health risks are associated with HRT.

Diet

• Improve your diet. Incorporate folic acid, alpha-lipoic acid, vitamin B, flaxseed oil and evening primrose into your diet; these will positively affect your nerves. Capsaicin cream or cayenne can be applied topically to relieve any pain you are experiencing.