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Scratching an itch is so good, and so bad

The motion kicks off inflammation but may also combat harmful bacteria 

A child's legs have multiple itchy-looking red bug bites that are being scratched.

Scratching an itch feels so good, but it may make inflammation worse, a study of mice suggests.

FotoDuets/Getty

By Laura Sanders

Read another version of this article at Science News Explores

Scratching an itch can bring a contradictory wave of pleasure and misery.