The exact reason why scabs itch isn’t completely clear, but scientists have a few theories.
An itchy scab can be irritating, but its typically a sign that a wound is healing correctly.
Blood clotting happens thanks to cells calledplatelets.
Verywell / Sydney Saporito
Forming platelets is the bodys way to patch up a leak.
Eventually, when the wound stops bleeding, a scab forms.
The scab helps protect the freshly injured skin from contaminants like bacteria and allows the skin to heal.
Underneath a scab, your body is working hard to repair damage to the skin and blood vessels.
The body also enlists white blood cells to help clean up any foreign matter and bacteria in the wound.
After some time, a scab will fall off to reveal brand-new skin.
Its a pretty amazing process.
Of course, the body cant repair all wounds this way.
Deep wounds and severe burns require emergency medical treatment.
Why Scabs Itch
Itching occurs as a normal part of healing.
However, the reason the itch develops isn’t completely understood.
One study from 2016 suggests that the same mechanisms at work witheczemaitchiness are involved in itching duringwound healing.
Why You Shouldnt Scratch
Scratching an itch feels great.
Its so satisfying, in fact, that people tend to scratch even when they really shouldnt.
You might even introduce bacteria, causing an infection to develop.
Proper care ensures the wound heals without complications and lessens your chances of getting a scar.
Some wounds require stitches.
An injury thats infected may require antibiotic treatment.
However, its important to avoid excessive scratching because it can cause the wound to open up again.
By alleviating the itch, you could avoid a prolonged healing process and potential infection from scratching too much.
Who Is at Risk for Slow Wound Healing?
Some people are at a higher risk of experiencing slow wound healing, which can lead to infection.
They can prevent you from damaging your skin or introducing bacteria to the wound.
It may also help to cut your fingernails.
Scratching an itch may make it worse.
According to research in mice,serotoninmay have a role in itch.
This neurotransmitter is produced in the brain and released to help regulate mood and pain perception.
Scratching an itch may cause pain and the release of serotonin.
While it may offer brief satisfaction, serotonin does not prevent the itch from returning and may intensify it.
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