Etymed
hyperesthesia
Definition
Abnormal sensitivity to sensory stimuli; heightened sensation or feeling
Clinical context
A 35-year-old woman presents to the emergency department complaining of severe pain from the slightest touch to her skin. She describes feeling as though ants are crawling on her arms and legs, and even the weight of her bedsheet causes intense discomfort. Physical examination reveals no visible skin lesions, but she exhibits marked pain response to light touch and vibration stimuli.
Mnemonic
HYPEResthesia = HYPERsensitive, PAINful, EXcessive, TENDER - all signs of heightened sensory sensitivity