ISLAMABAD: In the event of a mosquito bite or itchy skin, scratching it provides temporary relief, but according to scientific research, this habit further aggravates the problem.
Experts say that when we scratch, inflammation increases in the skin and immune system cells become more active at that point, which results in increased itching and swelling.
According to research, if itching is ignored, it can subside within a few minutes, but if it is scratched, it can persist for several days.
Scientists conducted experiments on mice to understand this process, where they were prevented from scratching despite itching. The results showed that the mice that did not scratch had significantly less inflammation and rash.
According to experts, when scratching, nerve cells that feel pain release a special chemical, which further activates immune cells, thus starting an endless cycle of itching and inflammation.
Interestingly, scratching provides temporary relief because this process gives a positive response to the brain, but its harms are greater.
Experts recommend using antihistamines, hydrocortisone cream, calamine lotion, or cooling creams in case of itching. In addition, menthol creams help reduce itching by temporarily giving a cooling sensation to the skin.
Doctors say that although itching is difficult to avoid, it is better to avoid scratching it to prevent further damage to the skin.
