Why Does Scratching Feel Good?

Scratching an itch feels really good. Some wonder why it has to be that way, and according to reports, that's because your brain tells you so.

Why Does Scratching Feel Good?

Your brain and spinal cord receive messages from a particular collection of nerve fibers that tell you to scratch an itch when your skin becomes inflamed. However, you are slightly uncomfortable when your fingernails scrape against your skin. As a result, your brain receives pain messages from your nerve fibers that momentarily block the itching sensation.

In other words, according to Brian Kim, M.D., co-director of the Center for the Study of Itch & Sensory Disorders at Washington University School of Medicine, pain helps block the signals of itch from reaching the central nervous system, Men's Health reported.

Your brain releases that feel-good amount of serotonin to lessen the pain associated with scratching. According to him, many patients claim that scratching pleases them in addition to relief.

In fact, according to Dr. Kim, some persons with extremely irritating skin disorders like lichen planus frequently report scratching an itch as being downright orgasmic.

Inherently bothersome and irritating, itching is a sensation. According to Dr. Melanie Palm, a board-certified dermatologist and cosmetic surgeon, scratching is a natural reaction because we incline to get rid of it, and tactile stimulation (scratching) is a knee-jerk reaction for quick, albeit short, comfort, Healthline reported.

Your body occasionally releases the painkiller serotonin in response to scratching pain. However, the short relief will only leave you with a nagging itch, sometimes even worse, which will set off an endless cycle of itching and scratching.

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Tips to Avoid Itching

As mentioned, it's difficult to avoid scratching when you itch, so you should avoid itch triggers because once you itch, you will likely scratch it - it's your body's immediate response.

WebMD shares some tips to avoid itching. For instance, you should prevent wool sweaters, hot rooms, or cleaning products that will set off your skin.

Once you itch, use a wet compress or go under a cold shower to ease the itch. Also, keep your moisturized because dry skin tends to make itching worse. Avoid long, hot showers or baths. Stay away from scented products.

You can apply lotion to moisturize your skin and soothe the itch. According to the American Academy of Dermatology Association (AAD), the best moisturizing lotion after scratching your back should contain hydrating components like jojoba oil, dimethicone, glycerin, or shea butter. It will reportedly stop the itch at its source.

You can also use products with menthol or calamine to cool your skin. Ask about prescription medications if over-the-counter lotions are ineffective. For instance, corticosteroids can help reduce the itching associated with psoriasis and eczema. An antidepressant or seizure medication might help if the discomfort comes from the nerves, as in multiple sclerosis.