You have an itch and you scratch it, and it itches again, and you scratch again.

What is an itch - not one caused by an insect bite or disease, but that sensation you get in the middle of your back that you can't reach or the bottom of your foot when you're driving?

There is no one satisfactory answer to "What is an itch?" It has been described as a mild sensation, triggered by trivial stimuli that kicks in the desire to scratch.

Scratching is the natural reaction to itching and it generally provides instant relief, but not necessarily long-lasting relief. Very often the itch will go away with or without any scratching. Your nose itches, or your scalp, or your foot. For many everyday itches, a little scratch is just what is called for. Scratching excites the pain neurons and masks the itching sensation.

Regardless of the cause of your itching, a little scratch might solve the problem. If that doesn't work, you might try a cool compress, a moisturizer, or over-the-counter hydrocortisone creams or antihistamines. (Be sure you read all labels carefully and follow directions.)

Kim Schulz, M.D., Dermatology, encourages using a moisturizer daily to fight the itch from dry skin. "Apply it immediately after patting dry following your bath. While a hot shower may feel good in the short run, anything that warms the body, and that includes vigorous exercise, will make an itch worse. I don't advise using over-the-counter anesthetics which may result in possible allergic reactions," she says.

If you have a health-related question, or to make an appointment, call UI Health Access - 800- 777-8442 or 384-8442.

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