I Have Trouble Sleeping Due To Pain. Do I Take Pain Medicine Or A Sleeping Pill?

Dr. Knox Todd answers the question: 'What Pills Do I Take To Sleep Better?'

ByABC News
November 12, 2008, 5:44 PM

— -- Question: I Have Trouble Sleeping Due To My Pain. Should I Take Pain Medicine Or A Sleeping Pill?

Answer: Pain and sleep are tough issues. Anyone with chronic pain knows that pain can interfere with sleep. Those who have gone without sleep for a long period of time know that poor sleep causes pain. In general, if pain is the reason for poor sleep, one should concentrate on taking pain medication first. With relief of pain, sleep may follow. This question, however, is pretty complex, and a lot of pain medications can help with sleep. This is a case where you really need to ask your doctor.

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