Why is nerve pain worse at night?
There are several reasons why nerve pain can be worse at night. The first reason is that when you lie down, the blood flow to your extremities decreases, which can aggravate the nerves and cause pain. Additionally, lying down for an extended period can cause nerve compression and irritation. This is especially true if you have a nerve compression condition like carpal tunnel syndrome, where lying on your hands can worsen your symptoms.
Another reason nerve pain can be worse at night is because of the release of certain hormones. Cortisol, which is the hormone responsible for the fight-or-flight response, is at its lowest levels during the night. This can cause an increase in inflammation, which can worsen nerve pain. Melatonin, the hormone responsible for regulating sleep, can also influence neuropathic pain. Studies have shown that melatonin can have analgesic effects and can help reduce pain sensitivity in people with neuropathy. However, if your sleep is disrupted, your melatonin levels may be lower, which can increase your pain.
How to sleep through nerve pain
Here are a few tips to help you sleep better with nerve pain:
- Adjust your sleeping position. One of the most effective ways to reduce nerve pain while sleeping is to adjust your sleeping position. Try sleeping with a pillow between your legs or under your knees to help keep your spine in a neutral position. This can help reduce pressure on your nerves and decrease pain.
- Take a warm bath or shower. Taking a warm bath or shower before bed can help relax your muscles and reduce pain. The warm water can also help increase blood flow and reduce inflammation, which can help ease your symptoms.
- Practice relaxation techniques. Stress and anxiety can worsen nerve pain, so practicing relaxation techniques can be beneficial. Try deep breathing, meditation or progressive muscle relaxation to help you relax and reduce your pain.
- Try alternative therapies. Alternative therapies like acupuncture and massage can also help reduce nerve pain. These therapies work by stimulating the body’s natural healing process and can help improve blood flow, reduce inflammation and ease pain.
- Exercise regularly. Exercise can help improve circulation, reduce inflammation and alleviate nerve pain. However, be sure to talk to your doctor before starting any new exercise program, as certain activities may be contraindicated for your condition.
Other tips to help reduce nerve pain at night
If you are still having problems sleeping with peripheral neuropathy, here are a few more things you can try.
- Avoid eating or drinking anything containing caffeine before bed, as it can disrupt your sleep and increase inflammation.
- Keep your bedroom cool and dark to help promote a restful sleep.
- Invest in a comfortable mattress and pillow to help support your spine and reduce pressure on your nerves when you lay down.
- Consider using a TENS unit or other nerve stimulation device to help relieve your pain.
Conclusion
Peripheral neuropathy can be a challenging condition to manage, especially when it interferes with your ability to sleep. Understanding why nerve pain can be worse at night when you lie down, is the first step to finding effective solutions. With time and patience, you can find effective strategies to manage your neuropathy and get the restful sleep you need to thrive. Additionally, be sure to talk to your doctor before making any changes to your treatment plan.
WinSanTor is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focused on the discovery and development of treatments for peripheral neuropathies. We believe in creating a solution that works and brings relief to millions who are struggling with this disease. Learn more about our company, our drug and subscribe to our newsletter.
Sources
- “Peripheral Neuropathy and Sleep”. WinSanTor
- “Why Is My Peripheral Neuropathy Worse at Night?”. WinSanTor
- “Melatonin Moderates the Triangle of Chronic Pain, Sleep Architecture and Immunometabolic Traffic – PMC”. NIH Library of Medicine
- “Why Is Neuropathy Pain Worse at Night? – Cleveland Clinic.” Cleveland Clinic
- “Why Your Peripheral Neuropathy Feels Worse at Night”. Amputation Prevention Centers of America
- “Why is nerve pain worse at night? – Neuropathic Therapy Center | Loma Linda University Health“. Loma Linda University Health
- “How to stop the cycle of nerve pain and sleeplessness – Neuropathic Therapy Center | Loma Linda University Health”. Loma Linda University Health
- “Are Neuropathy Symptoms Affecting Your Sleep?”. Everyday Health
- “Sleeping Positions and Nerve Compression Syndromes – Occupational Therapy Health”. Washington University Physicians
