Why Do Healing Wounds Itch?

Whenever tissue is subject to trauma, such as incisions made during surgery, the body initiates an inflammatory response as part of the healing process. Several different types of cells are released into the bloodstream and make their way to the wound where they act as mediators and initiate the various stages of wound healing. Among the cells involved in this process are mast cells which release histamine. It is the histamine which causes the wound to itch. So itching of the wound is a good sign. If you find the itching is unbearable, you can take an antihistamine such as benadryl for relief.