Can sleeping tablets make sleep apnea worse?

[DaveT81]

Hi all, just had a quick question - can herbal sleeping tablets worsen sleep apnea?

I am not actually diagnosed with it yet, but strongly suspect that that a what's happening.

Took some herbal sleep aid last night and as soon as I was drifting off I would stop breathing every time. Woke myself up a few times after stopping breathing too. This went on for hours.

It will happen often, always wake feeling exhausted and often have an unpleasant 'hungover' feeling.

Going to see my GP this week about it, as I'm having general breathing issues at the moment too thay so far have failed to be diagnosed too.

Thanks for your input.

[WF2k]

Hi, I believe I read that you ought not to take sleeping meds when you have apnea, I had severe obstructive sleep apnea at one point, I've lost a lot of weight and since cured it, but when I was researching it, the info advised against taking them.

simplesleepservices.com/med...

Also, it would be something you ought to discuss with a specialist/GP so they can give you the correct advice.

I was referred and had tests back in 2012 and then again last year which is when I found out I no longer had it.

[DaveT81 in reply to WF2k]

Thanks, I am planning to see my NHS Gp about it this week but had a rough night last night after taking a herbal aid so wanted to check in the meantime.

[WF2k in reply to DaveT81]

Yeah, I wouldn't suggest taking any more until you've spoken to someone.

[WF2k in reply to DaveT81]

Also, try and get the GP to refer you, you sound like you need help.

[wheezybronch]

Please don't second guess what your problem is, wait until you are diagnosed. I would not recommend taking sleeping pills as it will not be long before you need waking up pills too. Your motor skills like driving or operating machinery could be affected throughout the next day. Many people take herbal sleeping aids but in the vast majority of cases theses have not been tested to their efficiency and safety, in fact probably not tested at all, they are possibly a complete waste of time and money. There are many reasons for seemingly "stopping breathing" and differential diagnoses need to be explored.

psychologytoday.com/gb/blog...

I have tracheobronchomalacia in addition to mild OSA and always have "held my breath" on occasions. Try to get a referral to a sleep centre to get a definitive diagnosis, good luck, I hope that you get your answers and your sleep improves soon.