Morgellons Syndrome – Causes, Symptoms, And Treatment

Have you ever heard of a mysterious skin or medical condition that has no clear explanation? Morgellons Syndrome is one such ultra-rare disease.

While many doctors categorize it as a cognitive disorder, others believe it may be caused by nerve degeneration in the body. The exact cause of Morgellons disease remains a mystery.

This article will explore everything you need to know about this rare and puzzling condition.

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What is Morgellons Disease?

Morgellons disease is characterized by the delusional sensation of parasites or bugs crawling out of one’s skin, even though this is false. Most people with this condition report a continuous crawling or moving sensation on their skin.

Although there aren’t many studies or concrete explanations behind the true causes of this disease, several experts and doctors suggest that it may be linked to a range of nonspecific disorders involving the skin, nerves, and psychiatric conditions.

Additionally, some believe that the primary cause of Morgellons may be a form of psychosis, leading individuals to think they have parasites or bugs under their skin when, in reality, they do not.

It is also believed that Morgellons is often a “byproduct” of Lyme disease.

What are the Stages of Morgellons?

It is believed that the symptoms of Morgellons disease progress through three distinct stages, starting from the initial stage and advancing to the more severe stages. These stages help categorize the severity of the disease and are often considered the primary symptoms.

The three stages include:

1. Initial Stage: The patient begins to experience crawling and moving sensations on their skin. Many individuals with this condition report that these sensations are most prominent around the nose, scalp, and mouth.
2. Second Stage: This stage is marked by severe feelings of biting, stinging, and intense itching.
3. Advanced Stage: The final and most severe stage occurs when the skin damage previously felt becomes visible. At this stage, pustules, blisters, and fibrous threads may also appear on the skin.

What Causes Morgellons Disease?

Given the varying explanations of the disease, the lack of consistent symptoms, and the absence of conclusive evidence to support these claims, it becomes very confusing to determine the actual cause of the problem definitively.

Despite the uncertainties, four potential causes are often cited as primary contributors to Morgellons disease:

1. People suffering from Lyme disease
2. People exposed to ticks
3. People who ticks have bitten
4. People with hypothyroidism

According to statistics from the Morgellons Research Foundation, over 14,000 families in the United States are affected by this disease and experience its symptoms.

A survey of 3.2 million participants revealed that Morgellons disease occurs in 3.65 cases per 100,000 individuals, highlighting its rarity.

Symptoms of Morgellons

People diagnosed with Morgellons disease often exhibit symptoms similar to those of Lyme disease. These symptoms typically begin with a crawling or stinging sensation on the skin, followed by the gradual appearance of fiber-like threads.

Some of the common symptoms of Morgellons disease include:

• Crawling or moving sensations
• Small red, white, or blue fibers emerging from sores or unbroken skin
• Itching and redness
• Inflamed skin
• Blisters or pustules
• Fatigue
• Joint aches
• Difficulty concentrating
• Short-term memory loss
• Depression
• Insomnia

How to Treat Morgellons Disease?

Now that we are familiar with the common symptoms and causes of Morgellons let’s focus on the treatment approaches for the condition.

Although there is no definitive cure for Morgellons disease, and many doctors are still unfamiliar with the condition, there are two primary treatment approaches that doctors tend to use:

For Infection-Induced Issues

Suppose a doctor assesses that an infection or vector-related issue causes Morgellons disease. In that case, they will likely prescribe long-term antibiotic treatments to address the infection.

For Psychological Approach

Suppose the doctor believes that Morgellons disease has a psychological origin. In that case, they may refer the patient to a psychologist or mental health professional to address the issue through counseling or therapy.

This approach can be challenging and anxiety-inducing for many patients, as they may feel their concerns are not taken seriously, leading to feelings of frustration and alienation.

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Conclusion

Morgellons disease remains a mysterious and rare condition, with no clear consensus on its cause or definitive treatment. Its symptoms, which often resemble those of Lyme disease, can be both physically and psychologically taxing for those affected.

Despite the uncertainty surrounding its origins, treatment approaches focus on addressing possible infections or providing psychological support, depending on the patient’s diagnosis.

Although Morgellons is not life-threatening or contagious, its impact on mental health and quality of life is significant. More awareness, research, and education are needed to understand this condition better and offer more effective solutions for those who suffer from it.

As ongoing studies continue, the hope is that a more straightforward path toward diagnosis and treatment will emerge, providing relief for those living with this puzzling disease.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can You Die from Morgellons Disease?

A: No, there have been no reports of death directly attributed to Morgellons disease. However, the lack of treatment, awareness and the psychological toll it takes on patients can significantly impact their well-being.

It’s important to educate yourself about the disease and seek help from knowledgeable medical professionals.

2. Is Morgellons Disease Contagious?

A: No, Morgellons disease is not contagious or communicable. It is believed to be primarily spread through tick bites, which means it is not infectious through person-to-person contact. Additionally, the fibers and skin shed by individuals with Morgellons are not contagious either.

• July 2018
  Written by Somapika D
• Feb 2025
  Edited by Lakshmi Gayatri