Social Question

Jude's avatar

I was cleaning out my Dad's basement, last night, and there were a bunch of cobwebs that I had to get rid of. Why couldn't I stop scratching?

Asked by Jude (32204points) December 17th, 2009

I know that there was nothing on me, but, I felt the need to give a good scratch here and there (especially, my head). Why do we do that?

When thinking about it just now, my head my felt itchy.

Observing members: 0 Composing members: 0

14 Answers

SeventhSense's avatar

It could be dust mites or just a simple reaction to the dust.

SeventhSense's avatar

They’re pretty harmless and everywhere.

Dog's avatar

If it was not a mental suggestion it may be reminants of insulation falling on you.

I get itchy when hearing about lice or spiders. It really is a weird thing.

gemiwing's avatar

wait, what’s that on your shoulder?

I do the same thing. Even just thinking about ants makes my legs itch.

Mavericksjustdoinganotherflyby's avatar

Maybe you have a thousand tiny spiders crawling on your head. Or it could just be the dust like SeventhSense said.

gemiwing's avatar

It could just be dirt and allergens kicking your histamines up a notch. If you don’t have any skin reaction then just down a bunch of water today.

anon's avatar

Maybe it’s because your brain is trying to ensure that there are no insects about your person, potentially trying to get at your blood. Perhaps an evolutionary process?

Your skin usually feels crawly when you’re repulsed by something, it’s just a natural reaction like going red when you’re angry. I suppose it could be tied to the fight or flight reaction?

Obviously this is all speculation and I’m going to leave now because I’m getting all itchy!

jonsblond's avatar

I have been thinking of asking a question like this. I found out two days ago that a friend and classmate of my daughter had lice. We checked my daughter thoroughly and she doesn’t have them but I’ve been itching like crazy ever since. I’m itching right now as I type this. It’s driving me crazy!

Jude's avatar

@jonsblond I know! I keep doing it, lol!

CMaz's avatar

Sounds like you have Cat Scratch Fever.

Nially_Bob's avatar

As @anon stated, itching has been theorised as being related to an evolutionary process used to ensure that potentially dangerous insects, bugs, arachnids etc are not on our person (though the degree and validity of evidence available for this perspective is unknown to me). Assuming this to be correct you’re merely acting out of instinct by ensuring there are no eight legged beasties on your shoulder.

Dog's avatar

@Nially_Bob Great answer!

SeventhSense's avatar

@jmah
But seriously it could be dust mites.

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