Hi, I was diagnosed with mild apnea as you. I went through 2 different Sleep labs. My first Sleep Lab test occurred over 5 yrs. ago. I did not complete the tests because I could not tolerate the masks and the force of the air. Upon the recommendation of my Primary Physician earlier this year, I underwent my 2nd. Sleep Lab test. The years between my 2 tests I was able to cope with my apnea by using nasal strips and nasal liquid irrigations. My apnea had always bothered me by my right nostril stopping up! I also have had, for several years, an air fan and or a window open for greater air circulation. Very often this was all I needed to get more sleep. Upon my request my Primary Physician referred me to an ENT physician. It was my belief that perhaps my right nostril needed to be surgically enlarged internally. After consulting with this ENT specialist he flatly stated that there would be certain possible side affects and risks for this surgery. After naming a few of these, I decided this surgery was not for me! He also told me that the surgery would not cure my Sleep Apnea! After this I quickly decided to consult my Primary doctor in regards to taking another Sleep Lab test. She mentioned that the equipment, including the masks, had greatly improved since my last CPAP test. The Sleep Lab test only took one night instead of the two that I had taken before. The CPAP equipment had improved greatly. However I still could not tolerate the CPAP masks! After the test, the Lab Specialist Physician, referred me to a local Dentist who specializes in Oral appliances. This past April my 1st. appointment involved assessment and impressions. I was fitted with a Somno-Med devise a month later in May. Follow up so far has only required me returning just for one appointment to check the appliance. The technician will be calling me to see how things are going soon. The cost has been expensive even after my insurance paid for their part. It took me at least a week to get used to applying this appliance at night. I don't use nose strips any longer. I only occasionally have to use liquid nasal irrigation. I still use my bedside fan and sometimes my overhead fan. Overall I believe that the oral appliance is much better alternative for my Sleep apnea than the CPAP. I can't always distinguish whether I am having a Sleep Apnea attack or if I just awaken to go to the bathroom. At any rate my life is much better!
I am not sure if sleep apnea treatment will help your insomnia. You have said that the CPAP didn't work for your mild Sleep apnea, perhaps you should consider the Oral Appliance. There is plenty of info online if this interests you. Take care! And best wishes!
