Science

What is an itch, and why can a simple touch calm it?

Updated 2026-09-23 17:10 UTC 1 source Neutral

New Scientist’s Last Word series delved into the science of itching, explaining the physiological processes that cause itches and how touching can provide relief. The discussion covered neurological mechanisms.

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New Scientist
This question was posed as part of New Scientist’s Last Word series, in which readers give scientific answers to each other’s questions. Here’s what our readers had to say
2026-09-23 17:00 UTC
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