Why Do We Itch? How and When Will It Occur?
Question by Neil: Why do we itch? How and when will it occur?
How does itching occur? And why do we scratch to ease our itch?
Best answer:
Answer by diamond4785
Histamines cause itching.They are chemicals released by the immune system. The body sees them an invaders, resulting in an allergic reaction. This is why we itch.
Answer by matador 89
Neil,
With respect to “diamond4785”, above, the question is “How” not what is the cause of the ‘how’. The medical term for itching is pruritus. Itch is known to be transmitted by specific C neurons that have slow conduction velocities, lasting response to histamine, and extensive terminal branching. Nevertheless, no specific “itch center” appears to exist in the brain. Studies show that itch activates several areas of the forebrain, with significant overlap with the activation areas for pain. Pain is known to inhibit itch by central and peripheral mechanisms. Scratching and rubbing skin stimulates myelinated A neurons by mechanoreceptors that activate spinal suppression of itching. In addition to neuronal mechanisms, the proximity of mast cells to afferent C neuron terminals in the skin indicates a neurochemical mechanism for several aspects of itch. Stimulated mast cells could release tryptase, substance P, and other active compounds that could cause direct irritating effects or stimulate C neurons. Mild scratching is one of the best ways to excite the pain neurons with uninsulated axons. There are several competing theories regarding why this relieves itch. Essentially, scientists believe that the massive signal that mild scratching sends to certain populations of pain neurons temporarily overwhelms or masks the itch sensation. Scratching, while it may give you temporary relief, can actually cause more harm than good. It can lead to secondary infection that may require internal antibiotic therapy.
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It is extremely important to obtain an accurate diagnosis before trying to find a cure. Many diseases and conditions share common symptoms.
The information provided here should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions.
Hope this helps
matador 89
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