Overview of Sleep

What is Circadian Rhythm?

• Physical, mental and behavioral changes over the course of 24 hours.
• Also known as the "biological clock".
• Can effect sleep/wake cycles, hormones, and temperature.
• Abnormal Circadian Rhythms can result in some illnesses.
• Signals sleep hormone release at specific times.

Sleep Stages

• Stage 1: light sleep, eyes closed, still aware of surroundings.
• Stage 2: Eye movement slows, slowed brain waves, occasional movement.
• Stage 3: (Delta) Extremely slowed brain waves.
• Stage 4: (Delta) Deeper sleep, slowed brain waves, no body movement.
• Stage 5: (REM) Vivid dreaming, no movement, slowed brain waves.

What is REM Sleep?

• REM means Rapid Eye Movement.
• Occupies 20-25% of total sleep cycle.
• It lasts approximately 90-120 minutes.
• Dreams are most vivid during this time.

What is Insomnia?

• Most adults experience insomnia some point in their life.
• Insomnia can become a chronic condition if it persists.
• Insomnia can effect how people function in day-to-day routines.
• Stress, Anxiety, Depression and other illnesses can cause insomnia.
• Women are far more likely to experience insomnia.

What is Narcolepsy?

• Narcolepsy is a chronic brain condition.
• Narcolepsy involves poor control of sleep-wake cycles.
• People with narcolepsy suffer from "sleep attacks".
• Sleep attacks can last several seconds or minutes.
• People with narcolepsy actually get less sleep than average adults.

What is Sleep Apnea?

• Sleep Apnea causes sudden halts in breathing during sleep.
• The two forms of sleep apnea are obstructive and central. 
• Obstructive Sleep Apnea occurs when throat muscles relax.
• Central Sleep Apnea occurs when the brain doesn't send proper muscle signal
• Men are far more likely to develop Sleep Apnea.

Why is sleep important?

• Sleep helps the brain store and sort through information.
• Sleep can regulate metabolism and weight.
• Sleep helps moods. Lack of sleep can cause irritability.
• Sleep improves cardiovascular health.
• Sleep can help the body fight off disease and illness.