Why is HFMD worse at night?

Hand, foot, and mouth disease, a common childhood illness, often presents with symptoms that can be more pronounced during the nighttime hours. One of the primary reasons for this is the discomfort caused by mouth sores, which can significantly hinder a child's ability to rest peacefully.

The pain from these sores can make it difficult for children to fall asleep, as well as maintain a restful sleep throughout the night. As a result, parents may notice that their child's symptoms seem to worsen during the evening and nighttime hours.

To alleviate this discomfort and help ensure a better night's sleep for your child, administering a pain reliever can be a useful strategy. Acetaminophen is a commonly recommended medication for this purpose, as it is effective in reducing pain and fever.

Administering acetaminophen approximately half an hour before naptime or bedtime can help alleviate the pain caused by mouth sores, making it easier for your child to fall asleep and stay asleep. This can lead to a more restful night for both your child and yourself.

In addition to administering pain relief, there are other steps parents can take to help manage their child's symptoms and promote comfort. This includes keeping your child hydrated, feeding them soft, easy-to-swallow foods, and keeping their hands and feet clean to prevent the spread of the virus.