Can I combine sleep apnea treatment with insomnia care?

Sleep apnea and insomnia can occur in the same person. Treating one does not always address the other. A licensed physician in your state can review whether you need care for both conditions. A plan may include treatment for breathing during sleep along with behavioral care for insomnia. Results vary.

Combining treatments requires a safety review. Some sleep medicines and other sedating drugs can affect breathing or daytime alertness. Alcohol can add to these risks. Tell your physician about prescriptions, over-the-counter sleep aids, cannabis, and supplements before adding anything. Do not assume that a product is safe because it is sold without a prescription.

If you use an oral appliance, keep your dentist informed about your medical sleep care. Combining an appliance with Auto-CPAP requires guidance rather than trial and error. Ask who will manage each part of the plan and how its effect will be checked. Never change pressure settings, doses, or device adjustments to compensate for another treatment without instructions.