Understanding Sleep: Importance, Functions, and Disorders

This set of flashcards covers essential vocabulary and concepts related to sleep, including its functions, patterns, disorders, and hygiene.

Circadian Rhythm

The body's internal clock that regulates sleep-wake cycles based on light and darkness within a 24-hour period.

NREM Sleep

Non-Rapid Eye Movement sleep, which constitutes 75%-80% of sleep and includes four stages, with the deepest stages being essential for physical restoration.

REM Sleep

Rapid Eye Movement sleep, associated with dreaming and brain activity resembling wakefulness, occurring about 90 minutes after falling asleep.

Insomnia

The most common sleep disorder characterized by difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up too early, leading to daytime impairment.

Sleep Apnea

A sleep disorder characterized by repeated interruptions in breathing during sleep, which can lead to excessive daytime sleepiness.

Sleep Hygiene

A set of practices and habits that promote regular, restful sleep, including creating a comfortable sleep environment and establishing a sleep schedule.

Sleep Deprivation

A condition that occurs when an individual does not get enough sleep, leading to a range of short-term and long-term health consequences.

Sleep Patterns

The natural cycles of sleep and wakefulness that change during various life stages, such as infancy, childhood, adolescence, and adulthood.

Excessive Daytime Sleepiness

A condition where a person feels unusually sleepy during the day despite getting adequate sleep at night, often due to underlying health conditions.

Melatonin

A hormone secreted by the pineal gland that regulates sleep-wake cycles and is influenced by exposure to light.