The causes of skin itching and why scratching can be so addictive has puzzled researchers for years.
Finally, a group from Wake Forest University has closely examined the entire process using advanced imaging technology to monitor what happens in your brain when you're scratching below the belt (or anywhere else, of course).
In what would surely be a strange sight to behold, thirteen volunteers scratched their lower legs with small brushes for 30 seconds continuously, then stopped for 30 seconds, and repeated this start-and-stop routine for 5 minutes.
All the while, the researchers were monitoring their brain activity, using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology.
They found that scratching an itch obviously provided relief and reduced activity in areas of the brain dealing with negative emotions, but, at the same time, increased activity in compulsive/addictive areas.
The activity in various areas of the brain increased or decreased in direct proportion to the subjects' scratching intensity, indicating a conclusive connection.
Dr. Gil Yosipovitch, lead researcher behind the study, says:
"We know scratching is pleasurable, but we haven't known why. It is possible that scratching may suppress the emotional components of itch and bring about its relief."
This new knowledge and information could bring about new treatments that could deactivate the corresponding regions of the brain. For some, itching and scratching is so debilitating that any sign of a new method of relief is excellent news.
By targeting the prefrontal cortex, for example, treatments could control a patient's compulsive desire to scratch to the point of actually drawing blood.
For now, Dr. Irene Tracey, a pain expert from the University of Oxfor, agrees that the best treatment would, indeed, be based on cognitive behavior therapy.
Who would have thought scratching your butt could be so complicated?
At least we're starting to understand more about the causes of skin itching, and one day you may be able to do away with your "ointment budget" all together!
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"They found that scratching an itch obviously provided relief and reduced activity in areas of the brain dealing with negative emotions, but, at the same time, increased activity in compulsive/addictive areas."
I think I have ringworm and I cannot stop itching it. I have tried all the anti fungus creams and it will won't go away. I just read this and wondered if I have some negative emotions. Yes I do have negative emotions towards some issues in my life. They briefly include relation issues.
That's an interesting connection and could very well be the case, but if you haven't already, you should definitely see a dermatologist.
It may just be a matter of getting a prescription ointment strong enough to knock it out.