There was a period of time in my life where I listened to the same CD every night as I fell asleep. The gentle songs immediately soothed me into a relaxed state, helping me to fall asleep faster. When I am having trouble sleeping or am in an unfamiliar environment, … Read More
Studies examining the association of sleep behaviors with neuromuscular performance and daytime function in older women found that sleep deprivation is associated with worse physical function during the day. Women who slept less than six hours per night walked 3.5 percent slower than those who slept six to eight hours. … Read More
Do you ever have wild visions or dreams that are extremely vivid and seem like real life just as you’re falling asleep? You may be experiencing hypnagogic hallucinations, a condition often associated with narcolepsy. In fact, hypnagogic hallucinations are among the four most common narcolepsy symptoms, along with sleep paralysis, … Read More
One-third of all American adults are not getting enough sleep, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. But why does it matter so much? Well, simply put: Inadequate sleep is bad for your health. It's linked to chronic conditions and illnesses like diabetes, obesity, heart disease, and depression. … Read More
Do you often feel tired and fatigued during the day without a nap? Do you think daily naps are a necessity to function properly? If your answer to both questions is “yes,” you may be on to something. People—unlike other mammals—are monophasic sleepers, which means that our day is divided … Read More
Let’s talk about last night. Remember that decision you made to have another glass (or three) of wine? The one you’re regretting as you hug the toilet bowl with a pounding headache? As much as you’d like to wish it away, your hangover is here and it’s going to stick … Read More
The other night I elbowed my husband in the ribs, on purpose. As usual, he’d fallen asleep within seconds of hitting the pillow, a trait I’ve always envied. He was sleeping soundly on his back, in what he claims to be the best sleep position. Sweet, right? So why did … Read More
Lewy body dementia symptoms are often confused for signs of Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Both conditions are characterized by declines in thinking skills, and both can lead to mood changes and difficulty communicating. But while AD always results in significant memory loss, Lewy body dementia doesn’t always cause serious memory problems. … Read More
Ever awakened with a splitting headache or an ache in your jaw? Has your bedmate accused you of making squeaking or crunching noises while you sleep? You could be one of millions who suffer from sleep bruxism (a.k.a. nighttime teeth grinding), one of the most common sleep disorders. While occasional … Read More
The term "narcolepsy" may conjure up almost comical images of someone falling asleep in the middle of a conversation. But this sleeping disorder is no laughing matter to those who struggle with it. Narcolepsy symptoms include more than excessive daytime sleepiness (EDS). They include bouts of muscle weakness (cataplexy) and … Read More
