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What exactly is an 'itch' and why does scratching it make it feel better?

Why does scratching make an itch feel better?

  • Answer:

    i think scratching an itch causes a distraction; a purposeful "more intense" (because usually people apply a fair amount of pressure when scratching) scratching sensation masks the "slight" (by comparison to a scratch) uncontrolled itch sensation and then, psychologically and physiologically, if we do something purposeful it should give us pleasure (but let's not talk about neurotransmitter release, i'm not so good with that stuff).

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If the itch is the result of something located superficially, for instance dry skin, when you scratch you allow the dead, dried skin to flake off, thereby removing the source that causes itchiness. But what happens when you scratch too hard, too long? Wouldn't that damage live cells, cause pain and inflammation, and release endorphins as well as certain toxic chemical when cells burst? Which will perhaps only stimulate the immune system.

somanyquestions

Temporarily numbs or "deadens" the inflamed nerve endings.

*ifthatswhatyoureinto*

Because an itch is defined by the need to itch or scratch the skin.

YellowDaisy

"The sensation of itch can be reduced by many painful sensations, such as the most commonly known one which is scratching. Many studies done in the last decade have shown that itch can be inhibited by many other forms of painful stimuli, such as noxious heat, physical rubbing/scratching, chemically induced, electrical stimulation, and genetic differences. Any stimuli that caused pain will effectively show that itch was inhibited in that occurrence."

Rock

no u make it worse

hjason g

Rubbing or scraping, usually with fingernails, to relieve itching. A natural response to an itch, scratching is usually a temporary antidote to the cause of the itch. Some scientists believe that scratching actually helps the body release endorphins, which are natural pain relievers. Itch-Scratch Cycle – The term used to describe how scratching an itch can lead to more itching and more scratching (and so on). Scratching actually causes injury to the skin and direct release of inflammatory mediators that enhance or cause itching themselves. There is a natural tendency for an itchy spot to enlarge, especially if it is scratched. The itch/scratch cycle can also lead to secondary infection, damage, thickening and scarring of the skin and a prolonged healing process.

Merry Christmas!!

because something touches your skin and it is a reaction to the itch

John C

it does make it better but if you scratch it. It will get worse

Prettyprincess360

And iys is two cells smashing into eachother creating friction and scratching it is seperting them

Laura M

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