Covid-19 Updates: We are following the CDC guidelines and Protocols to keep our patients safe.

It can be really annoying to have a chronic itchy area, particularly if you are attempting to cure a wound. Although dealing with wounds can be unpleasant and painful, they are a natural part of life and usually go away on their own with the right care and attention. So, if you’re curious and find yourself asking questions like, “Why is my wound itchy?” you should read this blog till the end to know why.

Why Does My Wound Itch?

Itching is a normal side effect of healing. The body starts an inflammatory reaction to a cut in order to combat infections, eliminate damaged tissue, and encourage tissue restoration. The body then produces cytokines, which are substances that cause inflammation. These may cause the affected areas nerve endings to fire, sending messages to the brain that it perceives as itching.

Histamines are also released by the body as a component of the inflammatory response. The dilation of blood vessels brought on by these substances may result in warmth and irritation. Itching can also occur in wounds with a lot of liquid seeping out because of the fluid encouraging the invasion of nerve fibers by inflammatory mast cells.

The Body’s Healing Process

There are four stages of wound healing, including:

1. Hemostasis and Clotting

During the first stage, the body stops supplying blood to the wound to prevent hemorrhage. Blood clots around the wound, creating a scab to shield the healing area.

2. Inflammation

During this phase, inflammatory cells like neutrophils and macrophages arrive to clean the wound. Neutrophils remove debris and bacteria, and macrophages further cleanse the area. This phase also releases growth factors and chemical signals, such as histamine.

3. Proliferation

The proliferation and repair phase takes place between 3 to 21 days after the injury and is characterized by the formation of blood vessels, collagen, and tissue regeneration.as the skin regenerates, new nerve connections join the existing nerves, causing a mechanical reaction and itching.

4. Maturation

The maturation phase follows, during which collagen matures, forming a scar and raising wound strength. Once healed, the injury leaves a firm, slightly raised scar that flattens and softens over time.

Why You Shouldn’t Scratch?

Even though scratching an itch feels great and satisfying, scratching a healing wound can cause permanent scarring and prolong the healing process if you open the wound back up again. You might even introduce bacteria to your wound, causing infection.

Final Say!

Are you still wondering, “Why is my wound itching?” Well, it’s a part of healing. We would suggest refraining from scratching the wound even though it seems satisfying. Scratching can cause damage to your wound and can result in permanent scarring.

If you have further queries about wounds or wish to treat your wound infection, visit us at Sharaf Diwan, MD. We are here to help you; all you need to do is to call us at (832) 604-0005 and book your appointment ASAP!