Why scratching brings relief Posted: 2 years ago by AutumnLotus
OH, it brings such blessed relief and now scientists can tell you why - scratching an itch temporarily shuts off areas in the brain linked with unpleasant feelings and memories.
Comments: 3 Score: [-] 332 [+].
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Posted: 2 years ago by unstablefiend:
Very interesting. Taking it a step further, this may actually lead to an understanding of why cutters cut and why masochists enjoy pain so much. I realize I'm jumping a bit to come to this, but if scratching shuts down these areas of the brain bringing good feelings and blocking bad then what if this area of the brain is overdeveloped in some people? They did say that the more vigorous the scratching the greater the effect, so it would stand to reason that more intense similar feelings could produce an even greater effect. Another similarity I see is the compulsive effects; most (real) cutters cut because they cut and can't really explain why they keep on doing it. If the same area of the brain is stimulated as in scratching, then this makes perfect sense. Anyway, very interesting read. Thank you.
Score: [-] 47 [+].
Posted: 2 years ago by bcgrote:
Might explain why I can't remember much from before I fell into the cactus patch as a child...
Score: [-] 93 [+].
Posted: 2 years ago by haven:
This article made me itch.
Score: [-] 35 [+].
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