Becoming a sleep technologist requires completing a two-year program in sleep technology, obtaining certification, and having an interest in sleep disorders and research. Good communication skills and an aptitude for math and science are also important. Jobs are available at hospitals and sleep clinics worldwide. Become a sleep technologist by combining your interest in sleep […]
Sleep disorders can be caused by breathing-related issues, including obstructive sleep apnea syndrome, central sleep apnea syndrome, and central alveolar hypoventilation syndrome. These disorders can cause excessive sleepiness during the day and difficulty sleeping at night. Treatment options include weight loss, medication, therapy, or surgery, with CPAP therapy being a commonly used option. Individuals who […]
Sleep hygiene involves preparing for bed and maintaining a sleeping space. Recommendations include using the bedroom only for sleeping, establishing a sleep ritual, avoiding electronic devices, and sleeping when tired. Lifestyle changes such as exercise and stress reduction can also improve sleep hygiene. How we prepare for bed and maintain our sleeping space is called […]
A sleep study is a scientific observation used to diagnose sleep disorders and learn about sleep patterns’ effects on mental and physical health. Participants wear special equipment and may keep a diary. Sleep studies can last from one night to years and are ordered by physicians. They can provide valuable information about personal and human […]
Back pain while sleeping can be caused by a poorly constructed mattress, inappropriate sleeping positions, or an incorrectly sized pillow. Medium to soft mattresses are often more comfortable and supportive of the spine. Side sleeping with a pillow between the knees can help, and a flatter pillow is recommended to keep the spine in its […]
A sleep lab technician monitors patients during sleep studies, installs EEG monitoring equipment, and reads results. They must have prior training and certification. Sleep studies help determine why patients have trouble sleeping, and technicians must explain procedures to patients and monitor equipment for many hours. Technicians also assist in the final diagnosis of findings and […]
Sleeping on an important decision is more effective than relying on intuition. Participants who slept before deciding on a car bought higher quality cars. Unconscious processing leads to better decisions. Sleeping also improves predicting future match winners and resisting temptations. Teenagers are more likely to make unsafe decisions with friends. You should take your time […]
Newborns sleep a lot, up to 20 hours a day, and this is normal and necessary for their growth and development. Parents should not worry about oversleeping, as babies have their own internal clocks and will wake up for food and attention. It is not a sign of inadequate parenting. Many new parents worry about […]
Sleep spindles are waves of brain activity that occur during stage 2 sleep, blocking out external noise and resulting in healthier sleep. They are caused by activity in the thalamus and may be the key to sound sleep. A higher frequency of sleep spindles equates to better sleep, and efforts to create them artificially could […]
Sleep apnea causes interrupted breathing during sleep, leading to restless sleep, headaches, and memory impairment. There are two types: obstructive, where the throat closes, and central, where the brain doesn’t regulate muscle movements. It is common in overweight males over 50 and can lead to high blood pressure and stroke. Diagnosis involves monitoring during sleep, […]
The uberman sleep schedule involves taking 20-30 minute naps every four hours, with some people only sleeping for two hours total in a 24-hour period. While some claim mental alertness and increased productivity, sleep experts caution against extended use of polyphasic sleep. The uberman sleep schedule or the common man sleep schedule is a variation […]
Sleep talking is a common occurrence during any stage of sleep and can range from quiet whispers to loud outbursts. It’s not necessarily indicative of a sleep disorder, but constant sleep talking may be a sign of a larger problem such as lack of sleep or night terrors. Assistance from a health or sleep specialist […]
Sleep paralysis is a condition where patients experience short periods of paralysis when falling asleep or waking up, often accompanied by hallucinations. It is associated with other sleep disorders and can be scary, but not inherently harmful. It can be addressed with medication or changes to sleep routine. Sleep paralysis is a condition characterized by […]
Being too tired can make it difficult to fall asleep due to stress, lack of proper nutrition, and neglecting exercise. Caffeine and anxiety can also keep you awake. Relaxation techniques and a healthy bedtime routine can help improve sleep. Many people have had the unfortunate experience of not being able to sleep despite total exhaustion. […]
Lack of sleep accumulates and negatively affects cognitive abilities, causing symptoms such as daytime sleepiness and increasing the risk of falling asleep during activities like driving. Many Americans lack sleep by about an hour each night, and catching up on weekends is not enough. A paid plan of at least eight hours of sleep each […]
Sleep labs are facilities designed to study sleep disorders, often attached to universities and hospitals. Patients participate in sleep studies to diagnose conditions or contribute to sleep research. Rooms are designed like hotel rooms, with equipment hidden away, and patients may wear monitors to observe brain and heart activity. Technicians work with patients to ensure […]
