key term - Sleep-Wake Cycle

Definition

The sleep-wake cycle refers to the regular pattern of alternating between periods of wakefulness and sleep that we experience on a daily basis. It is regulated by both external cues (such as daylight) and internal factors (like melatonin release), which are influenced by our biological clock.

Related terms

REM Sleep:

REM (Rapid Eye Movement) sleep is a stage of sleep characterized by rapid eye movements, vivid dreaming, and increased brain activity. It is an essential part of the sleep-wake cycle and plays a crucial role in memory consolidation and emotional processing.

Insomnia:

Insomnia refers to persistent difficulty falling asleep or staying asleep, which can lead to impaired daytime functioning. It can be caused by various factors such as stress, anxiety, certain medications, or underlying medical conditions.

Narcolepsy:

Narcolepsy is a neurological disorder characterized by excessive daytime sleepiness and sudden bouts of uncontrollable sleep attacks. Individuals with narcolepsy often experience disrupted sleep-wake cycles due to abnormalities in their brain's regulation of wakefulness and REM sleep.