Wounds are common in our daily lives, and they generally heal on their own with proper care and attention. However, some wounds require medical care, such as large or deep cuts that need stitches or sutures that could become infected, requiring prescribed antibiotics.
Why is my Wound Itchy
There are a few reasons why you may have an itchy wound. As a wound starts to heal, it triggers an inflammatory response because cells at an injury site work harder than their counterparts elsewhere, causing your body to pay more attention to them. To understand this better, it is important to learn how a stitched-up wound undergoes the healing process.
Histamine Release
Histamines are chemicals released by the body’s immune system in response to injury or infection. They play roles in increasing the blood flow and signalling other immune cells to respond to the injury or infection, which can cause an itching sensation.
Nerve Healing
The nerve around the affected area can become irritated, inflamed, or damaged. In most cases, nerve damage can occur from injuries like deep wounds, burns, lacerations, and punctures. The regeneration of nerves can result in itching if the wound has affected the nerves.
Proliferation and Repair
New tissues are formed to replace the damaged tissue, involving the growth of new skin cells, blood vessels, and connective tissue. The itching can result from new skin cells coming into contact with the wound.
An avulsion is a severe wound that can result in the partial or complete tear of the skin and tissues. These wounds usually occur during violent accidents like road crashes, explosions, and other incidents that involve trauma. Immediate surgical treatment is required for chances of recovery on the torn tissue. Some instances may lead to the loss or dislocation of limbs.
How to Relieve an Itching Wound
Itchy wounds can be annoying and frustrating, and sometimes they distract you from your daily tasks. It can be difficult to resist the temptation to scratch, knowing it will make the wound worse or prone to infection.
Apply Cold Compress
Using a cold compress can reduce inflammation and numb the affected area, temporarily relieving the itchy sensation. You can opt for a cold pack or wrap some ice cubes in a towel and apply it to the wound for short periods of time.
Use Topical Creams
Over-the-counter creams and ointments, such as aloe vera, can help soothe the itching. However, for extra measure, consult with your doctor before using any topical treatments for safe and effective aftercare.
Keep Wounds Clean and Dry
Regularly keeping the wound clean and dry prevents infection and speeds up the healing process. Use mild soap and water, and pat it dry with a clean towel before applying an appropriate wound dressing to keep the wound protected.
Avoid Scratching
It may be tempting, but scratching a wound can make the itching worse, increase the risk of an infection, and delay the healing process. You can opt to keep your wound covered with bandages or wound dressings, or try to distract yourself with other activities so you are not tempted to scratch.
Moisturise the Skin
Keep the wounded area moisturised, as dry skin can make itching worse. Use a gentle moisturiser or lotion around the surrounding skin, and avoid applying it directly to the wound itself.
Consult your Doctor
Despite your efforts to care for the wound for a smooth healing process, sometimes home remedies are not enough to reduce the itching or address the underlying issue. If you notice signs of infection like increased redness, swelling, or pus from the wound, it is best to consult with your doctor for the appropriate treatment.
Conclusion
It is important to be patient when dealing with a wound. If you feel the urge to scratch your wound, remember that this is a natural sign that your body is healing. Seeking care at the right time is important, and wound care professionals must be informed of any signs of infection so they can provide appropriate treatment to disinfect the wound. If you experience a chronic wound, Sozo Wound and Stoma Care provides professional wound care in Singapore.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does itching mean healing or infection?
Itching can be a sign of healing and infection. However, severe itching with symptoms such as redness, swelling, or pus could indicate an infection.
Why does scratching a healing wound feel good?
Scratching a healing wound feels good because it temporarily relieves the itch by stimulating nerve endings and distracting your brain from the itchy feeling. However, scratching can damage the newly generated skin cells and delay the healing process.
Does a wound heal faster, covered or uncovered?
A wound heals faster when it is covered, as the wound is kept moist, away from bacteria and other contaminants that could cause an infection.