Why is herpes so painful at night?

Generally, herpes pain at night may be caused by factors such as increased attention, environmental stimuli, postherpetic neuralgia, secondary infection, or anxiety-related insomnia. If discomfort occurs, it is recommended to seek timely medical evaluation and treatment at a正规 hospital. Specific causes are analyzed as follows:

1. Increased Attention

During the day, various activities distract attention from the pain. At night, in a quiet environment, attention tends to focus on the affected area, amplifying the sensation of pain. Before bedtime, listening to soothing music or reading light books can help divert attention. Keeping the bedroom quiet and comfortable and minimizing external disturbances may also reduce perceived pain.

2. Environmental Stimuli

At night, friction from bedding against broken skin lesions or elevated room temperature increasing local blood circulation may stimulate damaged nerves and worsen pain. Wearing loose, soft sleepwear can prevent irritation of the affected area, while adjusting room temperature to a comfortable level helps maintain dry, irritation-free skin.

3. Postherpetic Neuralgia

The varicella-zoster virus can damage nerves, and during nighttime, nerve excitability increases, leading to more intense pain—often described as stabbing or burning. Medications such as gabapentin capsules, pregabalin capsules, or mecobalamin tablets may be used under medical guidance to promote nerve repair and relieve pain.

4. Secondary Infection

If blisters rupture and are not properly cared for, bacterial invasion may cause infection, resulting in inflammation that exacerbates nighttime pain, often accompanied by redness, swelling, and discharge. Under medical supervision, topical or oral antibiotics such as mupirocin ointment, cefaclor capsules, or fusidic acid cream may be applied. It is important to keep the affected area clean and avoid scratching.

5. Anxiety and Insomnia

Pain can trigger anxiety, which in turn worsens insomnia. Sleep deprivation lowers the body's pain tolerance, creating a vicious cycle. Medications such as alprazolam tablets, estazolam tablets, or doxepin hydrochloride tablets may be prescribed to regulate mood, improve sleep quality, and reduce pain perception.

In daily life, it is important to keep the affected area clean and dry, avoiding friction and pressure. Maintain regular sleep patterns and avoid staying up late to ensure sufficient rest. Eat a light diet and minimize intake of spicy or irritating foods. Stay emotionally balanced and avoid excessive anxiety to support recovery.