Understanding Sleep: Key Concepts and Terminology

This set of flashcards covers key terminology and concepts related to sleep, measuring sleep, sleep stages, disorders, and biological functions of sleep.

Electroencephalogram (EEG)

A test used to monitor electrical activity in the brain.

Electromyogram (EMG)

A test used to monitor muscle activity.

Electrooculogram (EOG)

A test used to monitor movement of the eyes.

Alpha activity

Regular, medium-frequency brain waves of 8-12 Hz, prevalent when resting quietly with eyes closed.

Beta activity

Irregular, mainly low-amplitude waves of 13-30 Hz indicating alertness and attentiveness.

Non-REM Sleep

The first three stages of sleep characterized by gradual transition and lack of rapid eye movement.

Slow-wave Sleep

Stage 3 of sleep marked by high amplitude delta activity, associated with deep sleep.

Sleep spindles

Short bursts of activity at 12-14 Hz found in Stage 2 of sleep that help maintain sleep.

K-complexes

Sudden, sharp waveforms in Stage 2 of sleep that serve as an inhibitory mechanism to prevent awakening.

REM Sleep

A sleep stage characterized by rapid eye movement, dreaming, and temporary muscle paralysis.

PGO waves

Phasic electrical bursts of neural activity that precede the onset of REM sleep.

Night terrors

Sudden arousal from Stage 3 sleep marked by intense fear and feelings of panic.

Cognitive impairments due to sleep deprivation

Includes fatigue, impaired temperature regulation, and suppressed immune function.

REM rebound

Increased percentage of REM sleep after experiencing selective REM deprivation.

Hypocretinergic neurons

Neurons in the hypothalamus that modulate sleep-wake transitions.

Insomnia

A sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling or staying asleep.

Sleep Apnea

A disorder marked by the inability to breathe during sleep, leading to waking episodes.

Narcolepsy

A neurological disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and sleep attacks.

Sleep Paralysis

An inability to move just before falling asleep or upon waking, often accompanied by hallucinations.

Circadian Rhythms

Biological cycles that last slightly longer than 24 hours, regulated by external cues.