ISLAMABAD: We have all been hearing since childhood that when a mosquito or insect bites, you should not scratch because it makes the wound worse. But the question is, when scratching provides so much relief, how can it be a bad thing? Now scientists have discovered how you can put yourself in trouble if you give in to a minor itch.
According to a report by the American news agency AP, experts say that although itching caused by insect bites or allergies provides temporary relief, this process later increases swelling and itching.
According to the report, Dr. Daniel Kaplan, a dermatologist at the University of Pittsburgh, says that his research has shown that when humans or animals scratch the itch continuously, the cells that cause inflammation in the body become more active, which worsens the problem.
According to him, ‘If you don’t scratch a mosquito bite, the itch goes away in a few minutes, but if you start scratching it, it can stay with you for a week.’ Which means that the area becomes even redder and itchier.
During the research, Daniel Kaplan and his team conducted an experiment on mice to see what changes occur inside the body due to scratching.
They applied an allergen to the ears of mice that made them itch. Some mice were fitted with collars that prevented them from scratching themselves. The result was that the mice that did not scratch had very little swelling and pain in their ears.
According to the research, there are cells in our body that are the first to be activated when there is any allergy or pain. These cells are called ‘mast cells’. When we scratch an area until it hurts, our body’s nerves release a chemical.
This chemical further inflames the allergic cells, which starts a cycle of swelling and itching that never seems to end.
Doctors believe that in ancient times, the benefit of scratching was probably that it helped to shed tiny insects on the body.
An experiment on mice also showed that scratching helped fight off a certain type of germ. But this small benefit does not mean that you should start scratching.
Dr. Kaplan emphasized that, “Ultimately, scratching is harmful, you should avoid scratching.” Although he also believes that doing so is easier said than done.
Experts say that treating itching caused by mosquito or insect bites in the summer is very easy. For this, common anti-itch creams, calamine lotions or cooling products available in the market can be used.
Dr. Kaplan, while explaining a simple and indigenous method, said that creams containing mint or menthol deceive the skin into thinking that it is cold, which stops the itching sensation for a while and saves the person from this tormenting cycle of scratching.
