Tag

Mast Cells

All articles tagged with #mast cells

health1 month ago•5 min saved

Scratch Less: Research Links Itching to Increased Inflammation in Eczema

University of Pittsburgh researchers show that scratching an itch activates mast cells to release histamine and substance P, boosting inflammation and prolonging the itch-scratch cycle in an eczema-like mouse model; mice prevented from scratching or lacking itch-sensing neurons had less inflammation, while scratching altered the skin microbiome, suggesting itching evolved partly to defend against infection but worsens chronic dermatitis. Cold compresses and 1% hydrocortisone cream can help relieve itching.

via Fox News|

#eczema #health #inflammation

health1 month ago•5 min saved

Scratch That Itch: Study Links Scratching to Longer Eczema Flare via Mast Cells

University of Pittsburgh researchers found that scratching an itch triggers mast cells to release histamine and other inflammatory chemicals, increasing inflammation and prolonging the itch-scratch cycle. In mice, those allowed to scratch showed more substance P and inflammation, while preventing scratching reduced inflammation; scratching also lowered levels of Staphylococcus aureus, but the skin damage from chronic scratching likely outweighs this benefit. Cold compresses and 1% hydrocortisone can help relieve itching. The study, published in Science, sheds light on the evolutionary role of scratching in skin defense but with a caution for chronic inflammation.

via Fox News|

#eczema #health #histamine

science1 month ago•15 min saved

Scratch That Itch: Science Explains Why It Feels Good But Worsens Bug Bites

New mouse studies show scratching bug bites increases swelling by triggering mast cells via pain signals and histamine, creating an itch–scratch cycle. Menthol and anti-itch creams can temporarily relieve, and researchers are pursuing targeted treatments (MRGPRX2 blockers). In the meantime, avoid scratching and use hydrocortisone, calamine, or oatmeal baths to calm itch.

via KSL News|

#histamine #inflammation #itch-scratch-cycle

health2 years ago•3 min saved

Decoding the Hormonal Connection to Alcohol Withdrawal Headaches

Researchers have discovered a significant link between the stress hormone corticotropin-releasing factor (CRF) and alcohol withdrawal headaches. CRF activates mast cells in the dura, triggering pain signals during alcohol withdrawal. This finding could lead to targeted drug therapies for alleviating pain during alcohol withdrawal and potentially breaking the cycle of addiction.

via Neuroscience News|

#alcohol-withdrawal #corticotropin-releasing-factor-crf #drug-therapies

health3 years ago•3 min saved

The Link Between Immune Sensing and Picky Eating

A study using mouse models of food allergy has found that allergic sensitization can lead to antigen-specific avoidance behavior. The ingestion of allergens activates brain areas associated with aversive stimuli, and this avoidance behavior is dependent on IgE antibodies and mast cells. The study also revealed that genetic background can influence the extent of avoidance behavior. These findings suggest that the immune system can modify behavior to promote the avoidance of unfavorable environments.

via Nature.com|

#avoidance-behavior #food-allergy #health

health3 years ago•4 min saved

Link found between asthma, eczema and osteoarthritis risk.

A new study from Stanford University has found that people who have asthma or eczema could be at a higher risk of developing osteoarthritis. The research suggests that existing allergy medications could block an allergic pathway to help slow the progression of the degenerative joint disease. Among the people who had asthma or eczema, there was a 58% greater risk of developing osteoarthritis within a decade. The risk jumped to 115% for those who had both asthma and eczema. The study's main limitation stems from the fact that it relies on self-reported claims data, which is "imperfect."

via Fox News|

#allergies #asthma #eczema