Why does an injury itch

Also called the hemostasis stage, this is the point that the injury occurs. Your body responds to the injury by activating an outpouring of blood, lymphatic fluid, and coagulation clotting to stop the loss of blood. This is the beginning of the repair process. It starts immediately after the injury occurs and typically lasts up to six days. Your body sends white blood cells to combat harmful bacteria at the wound site, swelling at the wound site starts and the skin begins the repair process.

Commonly lasting anywhere from one to four weeks, the proliferative stage is also known as the granulation stage or tissue-regrowth stage.

This is where you can see the signs of skin repair: scabs protecting the new skin cells that are growing. Also referred to as the maturation phase or remodeling stage, this stage can last from three weeks to four years. During this stage, the scab falls off as the new tissue gains strength and flexibility and collagen fibers form scars.

When your skin has been cut, your first step in wound care is to wash the wound with warm water and a mild soap. Aside from cleaning, this might alleviate some of the itch and irritation. There are a few steps you can take to reduce the itch, but patience is what you really need.

Contact your doctor sooner if you suspect the wound is infected. Scabs are a…. For some, it can also be a symptom of an…. Itching occurs as a normal part of healing.

However, the reason the itch develops isn't completely understood. One study from suggests that the same mechanisms at work with eczema itchiness are involved in itching during wound healing.

Additionally, itching that occurs during wound healing might be the result of poorly translated nerve signals. Your brain might receive a signal that your skin is regenerating via collagen synthesis, but that information is translated as an itching sensation.

And so, what you feel is that itching sensation. While some experts believe histamines, which are released by the body to help with wound healing, may contribute to itching, research suggests that their effect may be minimal. Signs that a wound may be infected include:. Scratching an itch feels great. Scratching an itchy wound that is in the process of healing, however, can cause scarring and prolong healing if you open the wound back up again.

You might even introduce bacteria, causing an infection to develop. Proper care ensures the wound heals without complications and lessens your chances of getting a scar. For a minor wound:. Some wounds require stitches.

By alleviating the itch, you can avoid a prolonged healing process and potential infection from scratching too much. Here are a few ways to stop the itching:. It may also help to find effective distractions from the itching. If itching is very severe and there is a high risk of infection, your healthcare provider may recommend a sleep medication or a neuropathic drug called Neurontin gabapentin to help you rest and decrease the urge to itch.

Some people are at a higher risk of experiencing slow wound healing, which can lead to infection. The following people have a higher risk of complications from a wound:. If you tend to scratch in your sleep, you may want to wear hand coverings. They can prevent you from damaging your skin or introducing bacteria to the wound.

It may also help to cut your fingernails. Sign up for our Health Tip of the Day newsletter, and receive daily tips that will help you live your healthiest life.

Kid's Health from Nemours. What's a scab. Itchy skin after burn injury. Allen HB, et al. Pruritus of healing wounds: Why 'scabs' itch.

J Clin Exp Dermatol Res. Lerner E. Ryan, MD, and Barbara A. Source: Our health information content is based on research evidence whenever available and represents the consensus of expert opinion of the Burn Injury Model System directors.

Disclaimer: This information is not meant to replace the advice from a medical professional. You should consult your health care provider regarding specific medical concerns or treatment. Department of Education, grant no. May be reproduced and distributed freely with appropriate attribution.

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