We are talking about an experience that probably every one of us has had. Whether riding a bike, shaving or simply doing housework – we get injured. At first we feel severe pain, then the wound seems numb. When scabs form over the injury and the healing process begins, we often experience intense itching. Why do healing wounds itch and what can be done about it?
Itching – a good sign
The itching of a wound is nothing that should worry us. In fact, it is a good sign and shows that the injury is in the process of healing. Our body is like a coordinated organization in which each cell has its function and task. In order to coordinate processes, the cells exchange messenger substances with each other. These biochemical substances serve, so to speak, as a means of communication between the cells.
The messenger substances irritate the wound
When an injury occurs, this organization is briefly thrown out of balance. Numerous repair cells are suddenly activated, and they must restore various layers of the skin. The cells must reorganize and initiate the fastest possible healing process. To avoid blood loss and an increased risk of infection, the cells must communicate with each other more intensively and, above all, quickly. Since the wound is very sensitive, it is irritated by the messenger substances of the cells. This is how we feel the itching.
What to do about itching?
Although it is very tempting to give in to the itching and scratch the wound, we should avoid this at all costs. Bacteria could invade the wound that has not yet healed and cause inflammation. A much better remedy is to cool the wound. The nerve cells now communicate to the brain not the itch, but the cold.