Chevelle Puts Sleep Apnea on the Music Charts

Sleep disorders had a good year on the music charts in 2009.First Craig David released the hit song “Insomnia.” Now the rock group Chevelle has given obstructive sleep apnea the lyrical treatment.Their song “Sleep Apnea” appears on the band’s fifth album, Sci-Fi Crimes. In September the album debuted at number one on the Billboard Alternative Albums and Hard Rock Albums charts.It also includes

2009: The Year in Sleep Top 5

The Sleep Education Blog is counting down the Top 25 Posts of 2009. Over the past four days we took a look back at 20 of the blog posts that received the highest number of unique pageviews.Today we’ll conclude with the Top Five Blog Posts of the year:5. My Child Bangs His Head in Bed as He Sleeps (Feb. 1)Sleep related rhythmic movement disorder is one of the most disturbing sleep disorders a

2009: The Year in Sleep Top 10

The Sleep Education Blog is counting down the Top 25 Posts of 2009. Over the past three days we took a look back at 15 of the blog posts that received the highest number of unique pageviews.Today we’ll continue with five more of the most popular posts:10. Violent Sleep: Acting Out Dreams & Nightmares (May 2)CBS 2 News in Los Angeles reported on REM sleep behavior disorder. RBD is a sleep disorder

2009: The Year in Sleep Top 15

The Sleep Education Blog is counting down the Top 25 Posts of 2009. Over the past two days we took a look back at 10 of the blog posts that received the highest number of unique pageviews.Today we’ll continue with five more of the most popular posts:15. Sleep, Caffeine & the Starbucks Effect (Jan. 28)Starbucks reported that demand for decaf coffee in some of its stores tends to drop after noon.

2009: The Year in Sleep Top 20

The Sleep Education Blog is counting down the Top 25 Posts of 2009. Yesterday we took a look back at five of the blog posts that received the highest number of unique pageviews.Today we’ll continue with five more of the most popular posts:20. Alcohol & Sleep: Nix the Nightcaps (Aug. 20)Decades of research shows that alcohol disrupts your sleep in a variety of ways.19. Can a “Sleep Diet” Really

2009: The Year in Sleep Top 25

Numerous studies and stories about sleep captured our attention in 2009. It was a great year to learn more about sleep and sleep disorders.Over the next five days the Sleep Education Blog will count down the Top 25 Posts of 2009. These are the blog posts that received the highest number of unique pageviews this year:25. Unable to Sleep, Unable to Work: Insomnia & Disability (March 25)A study

Holiday Wishes from the AASM

The children were nestled all snug in their beds,While visions of sugar-plums danced in their heads;And mamma in her kerchief, and I in my cap,Had just settled our brains for a long winter’s nap…-- From “A Visit from Saint Nicholas” by Clement C. MooreThe American Academy of Sleep Medicine wishes each of you a holiday season filled with peaceful sleep and sweet dreams.Image by Kris de Curtis

Children & Holiday Sleep Loss

Even the most angelic child may transform into a Grinch during the holiday season. Why?Children may be free to stay up later at night since they don’t have to wake up for school in the morning. And the excitement of the holidays can make it harder for them to fall asleep.As a result children may get much less sleep than they need. A new poll by a U.K. bed and mattress company found that children

Sleep & Airline Safety: Pilot Fatigue

Last week the NTSB opened the public docket on its investigation of the Oct. 21 incident involving Northwest Airlines flight 188. It was the second incident this year to focus attention on sleep, sleep disorders and pilot fatigue.For 77 minutes the pilots of flight 188 had failed to respond to radio contact from flight controllers. Then the flight overflew its destination by more than 100

NBA Teams Sleeping Like Champions

Previously the Sleep Education Blog reported that both the Boston Celtics and the Portland Trail Blazers have been making sleep a priority. Now it seems like sleep is catching on in the NBA.As a result the early morning shoot-around may become a casualty of this renewed emphasis on sleep. Over the weekend sportswriter Howard Beck wrote in the New York Times:For 38 years, the morning shoot-around

Sleep Apnea & Nocturia: Nighttime Urination

A new study evaluated nocturia as a predictor of obstructive sleep apnea.The study involved 1,007 adults. All of them had sought help at a sleep disorders center.They completed medical and sleep history questionnaires. Their sleep was evaluated during an overnight sleep study.HealthDay reports that 797 were diagnosed with sleep apnea. Snoring was reported by 777 people, and 839 reported

Restless Legs & Migraine Headaches

A new study examined the relationship between restless legs syndrome and headaches.The study involved 1,041 people. They were all patients at a headache clinic in Taiwan.More than 700 of them were suffering from migraine headaches. More than 200 had tension headaches. Fifty-one people had cluster headaches.Results show that RLS was present in 11 percent of people with migraines. RLS occurred in

Life, Death & Sleep

This week the CDC reported that in 2007 life expectancy at birth reached a record high of 77.9 years in the U.S.Women (80.4 years) had a longer life expectancy than men (75.3 years). There also was a gap between the life expectancy of whites (78.3 years) and blacks (73.7 years).Hawaii had the lowest age-adjusted death rate of all the states. West Virginia had the highest rate. In general, states

Steelers Tell Fans About Sleep Apnea

On Tuesday night some players from the Pittsburgh Steelers went to a local mall to tell holiday shoppers about obstructive sleep apnea.They signed autographs and talked about the warning signs for OSA. While waiting in the autograph line fans could complete a brief assessment to see if they might be at risk for sleep apnea.Steelers cornerback Deshea Townsend took the assessment himself. After the

Insomnia & Headaches in Young Children

A new study links insomnia symptoms with headaches and gastrointestinal regurgitation in young children. The results were published yesterday in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine.The study involved 700 children. They were between 5 and 12 years of age. Parents completed sleep and development questionnaires for their child. Results show that 19 percent of children had parent-reported

Sleep Apnea & Obesity in Children and Teens

A new study shows that teens were more likely to have obstructive sleep apnea if they were overweight or obese. But obesity did not increase the risk for OSA in younger children.The results were published today in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine.The Australian study involved 234 Caucasian children. They were between the ages of 2 and 18 years. Their height and weight were used to calculate

High School Writing Contest: Deadline is Jan. 15

The Jan. 15 deadline is only one month away for the 2009 – 2010 AASM High School Topical Review in Sleep Science Contest.High school juniors and seniors are invited to submit an original review paper. They can choose a subject from a list of 12 topics related to sleep medicine and sleep research.“This contest is an excellent opportunity to introduce students to some of the fascinating aspects of

Bipolar Disorder in Children May Be Linked to a Circadian Clock Gene

A new study found that the circadian clock gene RORB may be involved in bipolar disorder in children.The study analyzed the genetic make-up of 305 children with bipolar disorder. They were compared with 140 controls.Results show a positive association between bipolar disorder and four variants of the RORB gene. The authors suggest that this gene may be an important target in the search for the

A Book of Sleep for Children

Born in South Korea and educated in London, illustrator Il Sung Na makes his American debut with A Book of Sleep.“It's the rare picture book that, upon arrival, feels as though it has been around for years already,” noted Publisher’s Weekly.The opening line sets the stage for the story: When the sky grows dark and the moon glows bright, everyone goes to sleep . . .except for the watchful owl!This

Updating Memories to Prevent the Return of Fear

A new study shows that old fear memories can be “updated” to prevent the return of fear. The discovery is promising for the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder."Our results suggest a non-pharmacological, naturalistic approach to more effectively manage emotional memories," study co-author Elizabeth Phelps, PhD, said in a press release.The researchers used mild wrist shocks to condition

Sleep & Hyperactive Boys

A new study examined the link between sleep duration and hyperactivity in preschool children.The study involved 2,057 mothers in Quebec. They answered annual questionnaires until their child reached 5 years of age.Results show that nightly sleep duration and hyperactivity were significantly associated. Highly hyperactive children were five times more likely to have a short sleep duration. Short

Urine Test May Detect Sleep Apnea in Children

A new study shows that obstructive sleep apnea in children is associated with alterations in urinary concentrations of specific protein clusters.The study evaluated morning urine proteins. It involved 60 children with OSA. They were compared with 30 children who have primary snoring and 30 controls.The researchers found that the urine concentrations of 16 proteins were altered in children with

Infant Sleep: SIDS & Crib Safety

A new study examined trends and factors associated with infant sleeping position.The study analyzed telephone surveys from 1993 through 2007. Each year’s survey involved nighttime caregivers of infants born within the last seven months. They were asked, “Do you have a position you usually place your baby in?”Results show that the proportion of babies placed to sleep on their backs steadily

A Low-Energy Diet & Sleep Apnea

A new study examined the effect of weight loss on obstructive sleep apnea in obese men. The results were published online in the British Medical Journal.The Swedish study involved 63 obese men with an average weight of 248 pounds. Their average age was 49 years. Sleep apnea was measured using a home sleep test.All of the men had moderate to severe OSA and were being treated with CPAP therapy.

Sleep in Children with Autism

A new study examined sleep behaviors and sleep quality in children with autism spectrum disorder. The results were published Dec. 1 in the journal Sleep.The study involved 59 children with ASD. They were between 4 and 10 years of age. They were compared with 40 typically developing children.Parents completed the Children’s Sleep Habits Questionnaire. They also completed a sleep diary for

Sleep, Performance & Mental Practice

A new study examined how sleep enhances physical performance following mental practice. The results were published Dec. 1 in the journal Sleep.The French study involved 32 healthy volunteers. They were between the ages of 20 and 35 years.The volunteers were trained to perform a computerized finger-tapping task. First they memorized a sequence of eight finger movements.Then they repeatedly tapped

Sleep, Pre-Teens & Puberty

A new study suggests that sleep changes in pre-teens may occur before the physical changes of puberty. The results were published Dec. 1 in the journal Sleep.The Israeli study involved 94 healthy children from five schools. They were between the ages of 10 and 11 years when the study began.The children completed sleep diaries to track their sleep-wake patterns. They also wore an actigraph on

Sleepwalking, Sleep Terrors & Dreams

A new study shows that episodes of sleepwalking and sleep terrors may be related to short, unpleasant, dreamlike mental activity. The study suggests that people with these sleep disorders may be acting out dreamlike thoughts. The results were published yesterday in the journal Sleep.The French study involved 43 people with severe sleepwalking or sleep terrors. Their age ranged from 11 years to 72

Acting Out Dreams: Fear and Laughing

A new study shows that healthy young adults are likely to report dream-enacting behaviors. The results were published today in the journal Sleep.The Canadian study involved 1,140 first-year college students. About two-thirds of participants were women. They responded to different types of questions about dreaming.One group answered questions that described specific types of dream-related behavior

AASM-Accredited Sleep Centers: From Alaska to Guam

In 1977 the AASM accredited the first sleep disorders center. Today there are 1,825 AASM-accredited sleep centers and labs.They are providing trusted medical care for people with sleep problems in every part of the country. From coast to coast and Alaska to Hawaii, you can find an AASM-accredited sleep center near you.Recently the AASM also has accredited a few sleep centers outside the U.S. This

Don’t Let Holiday Stress Disrupt Your Sleep

Although the holidays are a time for joy, they can also cause a great deal of stress. Between shopping, decorating and hosting parties, you may find that sleep has moved to the bottom of your priority list.You may tell yourself that you will have time to catch up on sleep in the new year, but you may not realize the harm you can do by skimping on sleep.Dentist and UCSF professor of restorative

Sleep & Memory: Sleeping “Soundly”

A new study examined how sounds affect memory consolidation during sleep.Participants were taught to associate 50 images with a random location on a computer screen. Each object was paired with a corresponding sound.About 45 minutes later they took a nap of 90 minutes or less. This was long enough to enter deep, slow-wave sleep. But they didn’t nap long enough to enter rapid eye movement sleep

Caffeine & Alcohol: “Caffeinated Cocktails” in College

Campus life at college tends to involve poor sleep and sleep deprivation. Often caffeine and alcohol are a part of the problem.Each substance by itself can be disruptive to sleep. Now a popular trend among college students is to combine the two together.Some make their own “caffeinated cocktails” by mixing alcohol with high-caffeine energy drinks. Others simply buy caffeinated beer.A 2007 study

Talking Turkey Sleep

A lot of turkeys will be sleeping well today. They can finally get some rest now that the Thanksgiving season is ending.So how do turkeys sleep? Researchers in Mexico studied wild turkeys - Meleagris gallopavo - to find out.The study shows that the turkeys had a “polyphasic” sleep pattern. They slept multiple times in a 24-hour period. But these sleep periods tended to concentrate between 9 p.m.

Cancer, Chemotherapy & Insomnia

A new study examined the link between insomnia and cancer.The study involved 823 people with cancer; all of them were receiving chemotherapy. Their average age was 58 years; about 73 percent were women.Results show a high rate of insomnia in people with cancer. Forty-three percent had insomnia during day seven of cycle 1 of chemotherapy. Another 37 percent reported insomnia symptoms.“Our

NOVA Explores Dreams Tonight on PBS

The TV program NOVA will explore the world of dreams tonight. “What Are Dreams?” will premiere on your local PBS station.Leading dream researchers will explain how they study the world of sleep and dreams. And they’ll attempt to answer some of the most intriguing questions about why we dream.Do dreams improve memory? Do they enhance our creativity? Do they help us solve problems? Are they crucial

Insomnia & Depression in Women

A new study examined why insomnia is more common in women than men.The study analyzed data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. The survey is unique in that it combines interviews and physical exams.The sample involved 5,469 young adults; their age ranged from 20 years to 39 years.Results show that 16.7 percent of women reported insomnia symptoms; 9.2 percent of men had an

The Importance of Getting Your Beauty Rest

Many women know that a sleepless night can take a toll on the way you look. The next morning you may see dark circles under your eyes or newly formed fine lines on your face. You also may have a sickly complexion.Board-certified dermatologist Dr. Howard Murad told the Los Angeles Times that with age, sleep loss can affect skin more visibly because of progressive loss of cellular water.Sleep

The Insomnia Paradox

A new study from Italy investigated paradoxical insomnia.What’s the paradox? Some people perceive that they have severe insomnia; but their sleep appears to be normal when measured by a sleep study.The study involved 20 people with paradoxical insomnia and 20 controls. They were monitored during an overnight sleep study.Results show that the people with paradoxical insomnia estimated that they

ADHD & Sleep Disorders in Children

A new study examined sleep problems in children with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.The Italian study involved 55 children with ADHD. They had an average age of about 9 years. They completed a sleep interview and were monitored during an overnight sleep study.Results show that most of the children had disturbed, fragmentary sleep at night. The authors found a significant difference

Sleep Problems in Older Adults

Two new studies examined the link between sleep and frailty in older adults.One study involved 3,133 men from six U.S. centers. They were 67 years of age and older.Results show that sleep problems were highest in frail men. Statistical adjustment found that certain sleep problems were associated with an increased risk of frailty.Men who took at least 60 minutes to fall asleep were 42 percent more

Work & Insomnia: Sleepless Off the Job

A new study from Japan shows that insomnia may be linked to your job.The study involved 1,022 workers; they had an average age of 39 years. They were evaluated across two years.Results show that some workers were more likely to have insomnia for the length of the study. Employees with low social support at work were twice as likely to have persistent insomnia. Those who had an “effort-reward

Deep Sleep: Alzheimer’s, CPAP & OSA

A new study examined the effect of CPAP therapy on sleep in people with obstructive sleep apnea and Alzheimer’s disease.The study involved 52 adults with OSA and Alzheimer’s disease; they had an average age of 78 years. The effect of CPAP therapy was compared with fake, placebo CPAP. Sleep was measured by overnight sleep study.Results show that even one night of CPAP therapy had a positive effect

Sleep in the City: Sweet Dreams for Kids

A non-profit organization in Detroit is educating at-risk children about sleep. It’s also giving them resources to make their sleep environment more comfortable.Sweet Dreamzzz Inc. partnered with the National Center on Sleep Disorders Research to develop the R.E.M. (Rest. Educate. Motivate.) Sleep Program.The interactive program involves hands-on activities, games and songs. Trained volunteers go

Sleep is for the Birds

You may have never come across a sleeping bird. And that’s the way that birds like it.Nature writer and bird surveyor Val Cunningham recently wrote about the life of sleeping birds for the Star Tribune.Most birds keep their sleeping spots well hidden. They’re fearful of becoming a predator’s late-night snack. So they may roost in the same kind of secluded areas that they would use for a nesting

How Moms Influence Teen Sleep

A new study looked for similarities in the sleep patterns of teens and their parents.The Swiss study involved 293 teens with an average age of almost 18 years; 73 percent were female.They completed a seven-day sleep log; they also completed questionnaires about their psychological functioning. The teens rated their parents’ sleep and parenting styles.Results show a correlation between the sleep

Delaying High School Start Times in England

One high school in England has delayed its start time by an hour to help students get more sleep, reports The Independent.The school’s original start time was at 9 a.m. This would seem like a luxury to many U.S. teens who start school before 8 a.m.Now classes begin at 10 a.m. The school day ends 30 minutes later in the afternoon.“Here is something that schools can do to improve the health and

Why Do We Dream?

A new paper suggests that the purpose of dreams may be more than just psychological.Author Dr. J. Allan Hobson proposes a “theory of protoconsciousness.” He is a professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School.Hobson writes that REM sleep provides “a virtual reality model of the world.” Most dreams occur during this sleep stage.He thinks that dreams have a functional use. They allow the brain

Sleep May Help You Eat Healthier

A new study examined the relationships between sleep, job strain and food choices.The Harvard study involved 542 men; their average age was 49 years. They were all motor freight workers who often work long hours and have irregular shifts.Results show that 51 percent reported getting adequate sleep. Almost 88 percent were satisfied with their job; about 30 percent reported job strain.Statistical

Changing Nightmares: Imagery Rehearsal Therapy

“Your Health” columnist Kim Painter reports in USA Today that imagery rehearsal therapy is helping some people change their nightmares.This method is just one form of cognitive behavioral therapy. A variety of CBT techniques have been used to reduce nightmare frequency.One method is to record your nightmares in a diary. Relaxation exercises also may be helpful. Exposure techniques involve “

Improve Your Golf Game with CPAP for Sleep Apnea

According to ABC News, people suffering from obstructive sleep apnea often ignore its serious effects. However, some people seek treatment when they discover that it can improve their performance during their favorite activities.A recent study abstract found that treating OSA in golfers improved their game by up to three strokes off their handicap in 20 rounds of golf.The study included 24

Sleep & Willpower

Is sleep the secret to success at whatever you do? Stanford health psychologist Kelly McGonigal, PhD, thinks so.She focused on our need for sleep – and our frequent avoidance of it - in a recent blog post for Psychology Today. She also described the “Science of Willpower” course she teaches at Stanford.“I make a strong case for sleep as the most powerful resource for greater self-control and

Sleep & Observational Learning

Sleep enhances the performance of motor skills that have been learned through physical practice. Can it also improve skills that have been learned through observation?A new study involved 64 healthy people. They were shown a video of a hand performing a finger-tapping task, reports the LA Times.They were only allowed to watch; they couldn’t practice the movements. EMG monitoring verified the

Caffeine & the Night Shift

A recent study examined the effect that consuming caffeine at night may have on daytime sleep.The sleep of participants was monitored during a night in a sleep lab. Then they stayed awake in the lab for 25 hours. While awake they were given caffeine capsules. Then their sleep was monitored again as they slept during the day.Results show that daytime sleep was worse after taking caffeine. Measures

Thermal Infrared Imaging to Detect Sleep Apnea

The Nov. 1 issue of the journal Sleep contains the first reported study of “thermal infrared imaging” to monitor airflow during an overnight sleep study. Can this technology be used to detect obstructive sleep apnea?Typically, contact sensors are placed around your nose and mouth to measure airflow during a sleep study. The authors report that these sensors and wires may cause discomfort during

A Sleep Schedule that Works for the Night Shift

A series of studies have found that a “compromise” sleep schedule is effective for people who work night shifts. The results of the latest study were published in the Nov. 1 issue of the journal Sleep.The sleep schedule improves alertness during the night shift and daytime sleep after the shift. But it also provides a “compromise” that helps night-shift workers on days off.It enables them to get

The Good Life: Sleep & Retirement

A study in the Nov. 1 issue of the journal Sleep suggests that your sleep may improve when you retire.Results show that 24.2 percent of workers had disturbed sleep in the last year before retirement; this dropped to 17.8 percent in the first year after retiring. The odds of having disturbed sleep in the seven years after retirement were 26 percent lower than in the seven years before retiring.The

Children, Media Violence & Nightmares

Just in time for Halloween, the thriller Paranormal Activity and horror flick Saw VI topped the box office charts last weekend. The House of the Devil opened on Friday.They’re the kind of movies that the American Academy of Pediatrics wants parents to help their children avoid. The AAP has just released a revised policy statement on media violence.It reports that the average young person will

Fall Back to Sleep & Standard Time

Tonight marks the end of daylight saving time. The return to standard time officially occurs at 2 a.m. Sunday morning.This means you get an extra hour in your day. This is a great opportunity to catch up on your sleep!To get an extra hour of sleep, you should go to bed at your normal bedtime. Then set all your clocks back an hour just before getting into bed.Lifestyle choices, personal

Sleep Across America

Today the CDC released new survey data about the sleep of people in the U.S. It examined the rate of “insufficient rest or sleep” in 2008.The Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System is the world’s largest, ongoing telephone health survey. It collects data on risk behaviors and health conditions. One question on the 2008 survey was, “During the past 30 days, for about how many days have you

Sleep Duration & Obesity in Children

A new study examined the relationship between sleep duration and obesity in children.The study involved 5,159 children from 13 schools in Hong Kong; they had a mean age of 9 years. Sleep times and other data were collected using questionnaires.Results show that children with shorter sleep durations had higher body mass index scores. Children slept for more than 10 hours at night on weekends and

Sleep Apnea & Surgery: Caught on Camera

Surgery is one treatment option for people who have obstructive sleep apnea. Procedures tend to be “site-specific;” they will seek to eliminate the cause of the obstruction.The challenge is finding the right site for surgery. Problem areas related to OSA include the tonsils, tongue, soft palate, throat, jaw and nose.As a result, surgery isn’t a “one size fits all” treatment. In fact, the AASM’s

Sleep Apnea May Trigger Abnormal Heart Rhythms

A new study suggests that episodes of obstructive sleep apnea may trigger two types of “cardiac arrhythmias,” which are abnormal heart rhythms.The study involved 2,816 people. Their sleep was evaluated during an overnight sleep study.The sleep study results were examined for two types of abnormal heart rhythms: ventricular tachycardia and atrial fibrillation – or AF.Results show that the overall

Infant Sleep Apnea

Obstructive sleep apnea is common in adults; OSA also occurs in children, especially in preschoolers. Central sleep apnea is most common in middle-aged and older adults. But did you know that infants can have sleep apnea too?Primary sleep apnea of infancy is most common in small, preterm infants; it is rare in full-term newborns.During the first month after birth it may occur in about 84 percent

To Sleep, Perchance to Dream: Or Stroll or Snack...

Former "American Idol" judge Paula Abdul told Fox News that while they were living together, her former co-star Kara DioGuardi suffered from sleep eating and sleepwalking.Sleepwalking is typically seen as a childhood problem. While it is more common in children (as many as 17 percent of children sleepwalk), up to four percent of adults sleepwalk as well.Sleepwalking, also known as somnambulism,

Celtics Getting Sleep for the NBA Season

Boston Celtics head coach Doc Rivers is looking for any advantage that will help his team return to the NBA Finals this year. After winning the 2008 NBA Title, the Celtics were ousted from the 2009 playoffs by the Orlando Magic.This season the Celtics get All-Star forward Kevin Garnett back from a knee injury. They’re also getting more sleep.The team is being advised by Harvard sleep researcher

Biofeedback to Treat Insomnia

A recent article from Health magazine describes the use of “biofeedback” to treat insomnia.What’s biofeedback? It’s a form of therapy that gives you visual or auditory feedback for certain body signals. Cues may give you details about your heart rate, blood pressure, breathing or body temperature. Then you learn to control the body in a way that promotes sleep.Author Leslie Goldman describes

Sleep Deprivation: A Memory-Enhancing Drug?

Researchers report that they have identified the molecular mechanism by which sleep deprivation causes memory problems. They also suggest that drug treatment may be able to prevent the cognitive effects of sleep deprivation.Their letter was published today in the journal Nature.“Millions of people around the world suffer from a lack of sleep,” study co-author George S. Baillie said in a

Sleep Related Leg Cramps

You wake during the night with an intense feeling of pain in your leg or foot. A muscle suddenly contracted and tightened.The pain may last for a few seconds or several minutes. Then it ends as suddenly as it began.This describes a typical episode of a sleep related leg cramp. These leg cramps can be disruptive to your sleep. Lingering soreness from a leg cramp also can make it hard for you to go

Sleepless in Brazil

A new study shows that Americans aren’t the only people who have sleep problems. The study surveyed Brazilian adults about their sleep complaints. The results were published last week in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine.The study involved a random sample of 2,110 adults from 150 cities in Brazil. Surveys were conducted during face-to-face interviews.Results show that 63 percent of people

Positional Therapy: Sleep Apnea & the Tennis Ball Technique

A new study from Australia examined long-term compliance with the tennis ball technique in people with obstructive sleep apnea. The results were published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine.What is the tennis ball technique? It is a simple method of positional therapy that helps you avoid sleeping on your back. It was first introduced in the early 1980s.A tennis ball is fastened to the

Use Bedtime Routines and Relaxation Techniques to Sleep Better

A new study in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine examines the strategies people use to reduce daytime sleepiness.Taking a bath was the most common sleep management practice for both men and women; 59 percent of men and 64.4 percent of women used it. Keeping a regular sleep schedule was the second most popular tactic.People also wound down for the night by listening to music, snacking and

Sleep, Infants & Breastfeeding

A new study suggests that nighttime breast milk may help babies fall asleep.Researchers in Spain analyzed the content of breast milk samples. They found a “circadian rhythm” for some nucleotides in the milk. The levels of some nucleotides rose at night; others rose during the day."This made us realize that milk induces sleep in babies," lead author Cristina Sánchez told The Telegraph.She said the

CPAP Therapy: Reducing Nasal Congestion

A new study from Ireland evaluated methods to improve nasal symptoms in people using CPAP therapy for obstructive sleep apnea. The results were published yesterday in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine.The study involved 112 people; most of the participants were men. On average they were obese and had severe sleep apnea.They were randomly assigned to one of three CPAP therapy groups: dry CPAP

Sleep Apnea in Women: Diet, Exercise & Weight Loss

A new study from Australia tested the effectiveness of a 16-week exercise and diet program for people with obstructive sleep apnea. The results were published today in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine.The study involved 12 people with an average age of 42 years; nine of the participants were women. They had an average body mass index of 36.1; a BMI of 30 or higher is considered “obese.”They

Sleep Apnea Surgery: Is UPPP for You?

Are some people with obstructive sleep apnea more likely to benefit from surgery than others?A new study involved 63 people with OSA. They had an average age of 42 years, and 81 percent were men. Their average body mass index was 35; a BMI of 30 or higher is considered “obese.”Each person underwent “uvulopalatopharyngoplasty.” UPPP involves the removal of soft tissue from the throat; this tissue

Into the Deep: Exploring the Science of Sleep

The Oct. 24 issue of the magazine ScienceNews features four articles that focus on the science of sleep.“The Why of Sleep” takes a look at current theories that attempt to explain the purpose of sleep. Saving energy. Promoting learning and memory. Regulating emotions. Boosting the immune system.Sleep must provide some benefits that are preferable to waking activities. But the primary function of

Having an Afternoon Energy Slump? Take a Nap!

Do you find yourself feeling sleepy after lunch? If the answer is yes, you are not alone.A recent article in the News and Sentinel reports that humans’ natural circadian rhythm includes a decrease in energy in the afternoon. Dr. Barry Louden, a board-certified sleep medicine physician, told the News and Sentinel that in addition to our natural energy decrease, many of us are tired in the

Obesity & Sleep Apnea Severity

Obesity can increase the frequency of breathing pauses that occur in people with obstructive sleep apnea. Does it also increase the severity of these breathing pauses?A new study involved 750 adults. Their sleep was evaluated during overnight sleep studies; 37,473 breathing events were recorded.Forty percent of participants were obese; they contributed 62 percent of the breathing events, reports

Always Tired: Chronic Fatigue & Hypersomnia

A new study identified DNA from a virus in 67 percent of people with chronic fatigue syndrome.The “XMRV” virus was found in the blood of 68 out of 101 CFS patients; it was found in only eight of 218 healthy controls. The same virus has been linked to prostate cancer, Reuters reports.“I think this establishes what had always been considered a psychiatric disease as an infectious disease,” study

Sleep Apnea & Children: Hurting Heart Health

A new study in the Oct. 1 issue of the journal Sleep examined how obstructive sleep apnea affects heart rate and blood pressure in children.The study involved 15 boys and 15 girls in Australia; they were between the ages of 7 and 12 years.Ten children had primary snoring; 10 had mild sleep apnea with an average of 2.5 breathing pauses per hour of sleep; and 10 had moderate to severe OSA with a

Drowsy Driving: OSA, Sleep Loss & Alcohol

Sleep loss and alcohol both have negative effects on driving performance. Are people with obstructive sleep apnea more vulnerable to these effects?A new study from Australia involved 38 people with untreated OSA. They were compared with 20 healthy controls.Participants were tested three times in a driving simulator. They drove after a normal night of sleep and after only four hours of sleep.They

Sleep & Dyslexia: Reading Between the Lines

A new study from Italy analyzed the sleep of 16 children with developmental dyslexia. The results were published in the Oct. 1 issue of the journal Sleep.The children had an average age of 11 years. Their sleep was evaluated during an overnight sleep study in a sleep lab. Results were compared with 11 children who read normally.The study found that dyslexic children had a higher percentage of

Sleep & Teens: New High School Writing Contest

It’s time for teens to do some sleep writing. The 2009 – 2010 AASM High School Topical Review in Sleep Science Contest is a new writing contest for juniors and seniors.It offers a first-place prize of a $1,000 U.S. savings bond. The winning student also will receive a trip for two to San Antonio, Texas.To enter, students must write an original topical review paper related to sleep and sleep

Sleep for your Health this Cold and Flu Season

The cold and flu season is quickly approaching. This year it is more important than ever to protect yourself not only from the seasonal flu, but also from the contagious H1N1 virus or “swine flu”.So what are the easiest ways to avoid contracting the flu?It may be as easy as practicing good hygiene. Wash your hands, keep your hands away from your face and avoid contact with people who are sick.

Sleep & Memory: Can a Nasal Spray Help You Remember?

German researchers have tested how a unique nasal spray affects sleep and memory.The study involved a nasal spray containing “interleukin-6.” IL-6 is a cytokine; it is a signaling molecule that transmits information between cells. Seventeen young men spent two nights in a lab, reports a FASEB Journal statement. Each time they read either an emotional or neutral short story. Then they were

Who Sleeps Better – Older Men or Women?

A study published yesterday in the journal Sleep compared the sleep of older men and women.The study involved 956 men and women in the Netherlands; they ranged in age from 59 years to 79 years. The participants reported their sleep quality and kept a sleep diary.They also used an actigraph for an average of six nights. The device can be worn like a watch; it tracks body movements to provide an

Alcoholism Has Long-Term Effects on Sleep

A study published today in the journal Sleep shows that alcoholics may continue to have sleep problems long after they quit drinking.The study involved 42 alcoholics with a mean age of 49 years. They had been sober for varying periods of time. Some had abstained from drinking for a few weeks; others had not had a drink in almost two years. Their sleep was compared with 42 controls.Results show

Sleep Books for Children

A new book helps children learn about snoring and obstructive sleep apnea.Botts' Dots and the Rumble Line: How They Saved the Trees in Snordom was written by dentist Dr. Michael Simmons. He is a member of both the AASM and the American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine.The book involves a group of civilized boars who are planting trees in the town of Snordom. But all the trees keep falling down

Weight Loss, Sleep Apnea & Diabetes

A new study shows that weight loss may reduce the severity of obstructive sleep apnea in some people who also have type 2 diabetes.The study involved 264 diabetic adults. They had an average age of 61 years; their mean weight was 226 pounds. They had an average body mass index of 36.7; a BMI of 30 or higher is considered “obese.”They also had an average apnea-hypopnea index of 23.2. This means

Biggest Loser: Weight Loss, CPAP & Sleep Apnea

Season eight of the hit TV show “The Biggest Loser” has begun. Once again contestants are being screened and treated for obstructive sleep apnea.“I have put in place a new policy that all contestants need to undergo a sleep study in future seasons,” the show’s medical expert Dr. Rob Huizenga said in a Philips Respironics statement. “The results have been astonishing after two seasons of testing.”

Bedtime Battles: Helping Children Get Good Sleep

It is 9 p.m.; you are ready for your kids to go to sleep, but are they?As the school year begins, parents may find themselves struggling to defeat the technological temptations that keep children awake late at night. Research shows that children who don’t get enough sleep are at higher risk for emotional and behavioral problems. Distractions like computers, T.V. and video games can keep children

William Wordsworth’s Sleepless Nights

It seems that William Wordsworth was well acquainted with insomnia. His poem “To Sleep” describes how he wrestled sleep – and lost – across three restless nights.Poet Christopher Nield recently wrote an essay about the poem for the Epoch Times. It’s the latest in his series on “Classic Poetry for Modern Life.”In the opening lines of the poem Wordsworth describes the futility of his attempts to

Sleep Loss & Alzheimer’s Disease

A new study provides some of the first indications that chronic sleep loss could play a role in the development of Alzheimer’s disease.The researchers analyzed the levels of “amyloid beta” in the brains of mice. Amyloid beta is a protein fragment.The study reports that the accumulation of amyloid beta in the brain is a hallmark of Alzheimer's disease; the mice in the study were genetically

Insomnia, Sleep Loss & Diabetes Risk

A new study suggests that people suffering from chronic insomnia and sleep loss may be at risk for type 2 diabetes.The study involved 1,741 men and women from central Pennsylvania. They were randomly selected for the study. Their sleep was monitored by overnight sleep study in a sleep lab.Results show that having chronic insomnia for a year or longer was associated with a higher risk for diabetes

Couples & Sleep: Separated by Snoring?

On Sunday the Sleep Education blog reported that one sleep researcher recommends separate sleep arrangements for some couples.What about women who sleep with a snoring bed partner? Will they sleep better by sleeping alone?A new study from France provides mixed results. It involved 23 women who complained that they were having sleep problems because of their bed partner’s snoring.Each woman’s

Women & Sleep Apnea Risk

A new study estimated the risk for obstructive sleep apnea among women in the U.S.The study involved telephone survey responses from 1,254 women; OSA risk was estimated using the Berlin Questionnaire.Results indicate that one in four women in America is at high risk of having OSA. Habitual snoring was reported by 61 percent of women with a high risk; 24 percent reported daytime sleepiness.

Analyzing the Sleep of Women

A new study sought to define normal values for the sleep of women. It also looked at the factors that are most likely to reduce the quality of a woman’s sleep.The study involved 400 Swedish women; they were between 20 and 70 years of age. Their sleep was monitored by home sleep testing.Results show that they slept for only about 6.5 hours per night. It took the women an average of 22 minutes to

Couples & Sleep: Together or Apart?

Many couples may enjoy cuddling before falling asleep; but researcher Dr. Neil Stanley suggests that sharing a bed can lead to poor sleep and hurt your relationship.Stanley told attendees of the British Science Festival that couples should consider sleeping apart, reports the Press Association. He said there is a 50-percent chance that your bed partner’s movements

Ballet Dancers: So You Think You Can Sleep

The hit TV show “So You Think You Can Dance” confirms that some amateur dancers have all the right moves. But for pros who already know they can dance, the question is: Can they sleep?The authors of a new study report that professional ballet dancers undergo a rigorous training regimen during rehearsal. The work can involve extreme physical and mental stress; long days and irregular schedules are

Sleep Reduces False Memories

A new study shows that sleep may improve the accuracy of your memory. Lead author Kimberly Fenn said that this is the first study to examine sleep and memory errors.The research involved college students who studied lists of words; 12 hours later they were tested. From a list with new words mixed in, they had to identify words that they had studied 12 hours earlier.Some students studied the

Sleep & Long-Term Memory: A “Sharp” Discovery

Researchers report that they have discovered how sleep plays a role in memory consolidation.The process involves “sharp wave ripples.” These are short, intense, compressed oscillations in the brain; they occur during the sleep stage of slow-wave sleep.The research team suggests that these events are responsible for consolidating memory. The sharp wave ripples transfer learned information to the

Children & Sleep: Fragile Bedtimes

A new study examined the bedtimes of young children in “fragile families.” It presents the latest findings from the ongoing Fragile Families and Child Wellbeing Study.What is a fragile family? The researchers use this term for unmarried parents and their children; these families are at greater risk of breaking up and living in poverty than more traditional families.The study involved 3,217

Lucid Dreaming: A Sleep-Wake Hybrid

A new study in the Sept. 1 issue of the journal Sleep investigated lucid dreaming. What is lucid dreaming? It involves the conscious awareness of dreaming while you are still asleep.Lucid dreaming combines aspects of waking and dreaming. You have hallucinatory dream activity along with reflective awareness; you realize that you are not awake and are dreaming. In contrast, during non-lucid dreams

Groaning During Sleep

A new study evaluated five men and three women who have sleep related groaning.They were monitored during an overnight sleep study. The number of groaning episodes during the night ranged from 40 to 182; the duration of these episodes lasted from two seconds to 46 seconds.Almost 77 percent of the groaning episodes occurred during the sleep stage of rapid eye movement sleep – or REM sleep. About

Sleep, Hot Flashes & Menopause

A new study shows that the drug gabapentin can improve sleep quality in menopausal women with hot flashes.“It has minimal side effects and it is a generic drug,” lead author Dr. Michael E. Yurcheshen said in a prepared statement. “That makes it a very attractive treatment for these problems.”The study involved 59 postmenopausal women; they experienced seven to 20 hot flashes daily. The women

Is Ambien a Miracle Cure for Severe Brain Damage?

Most people who take zolpidem – the generic name for Ambien – have insomnia and want to fall asleep. But can the drug help some people wake from an unconscious state?For years ReGen Therapeutics in London has been working on a “zolpidem project.” It is developing new, low-dose, non-sedating formulations of zolpidem; the goal is to use zolpidem to reverse “brain dormancy.”Now the Moss

Dreams, Nightmares and 9/11

Today marks the eighth anniversary of the terrorist attacks against the U.S. on Sept. 11, 2001.“Nearly 3,000 days have passed -- almost one for each of those taken from us,” President Obama said at a wreath-laying ceremony at the Pentagon. “But no turning of the seasons can diminish the pain and the loss of that day.”Did that pain and loss affect our dreams in the days and weeks after 9/11? A

Aromatherapy & Insomnia: The Good, the Bad and the Smelly

Yesterday the Sleep Education Blog reported that smells can affect the emotional content of dreams. What about insomnia – can smells improve the quality of your sleep?Aromatherapy is one form of complimentary and alternative medicine - or CAM. It involves the use of fragrant, essential oils from plants. Most often the essential oils are inhaled or applied to the skin; they may be added to

The Smell of Sleep & Dreams

A new study examined how your sense of smell may affect your dreams.The small study from Germany involved 15 volunteers. They were studied using sensory stimulation during the sleep stage of rapid eye movement sleep – or REM sleep.The study compared two smells with a control condition. One smell involved hydrogen sulphide – the smell of rotten eggs. The other smell involved phenyl ethyl alcohol –

Work & Sleep: A Hard Day’s Night

A new study shows that your job may be affecting how you sleep.The Dutch study involved 1,163 employees. Sleep quality and fatigue were measured across a one-year time lag.Results show that exposure to a high-strain work environment was associated with elevated levels of sleep complaints. In contrast, people with a low-strain job had the highest sleep quality; they also had the lowest level of

Sleep is for the Dogs

It’s Labor Day, so it’s a good time to catch up on some sleep. Maybe you can find an unoccupied room where you can sneak away for a nap.If you need inspiration, you can check out the photos of these dogs. Visitors to LATimes.com caught their dogs napping everywhere from the shower stall to the flower pot.Does your dog have a serious case of daytime sleepiness? If so, maybe it’s because of your

Sleep & Weight Gain: Watch When You Eat

A new study of mice provides the first causal evidence that links meal timing and increased weight gain, reports Northwestern University. The study suggests that eating when you should be sleeping may lead to weight gain.It might seem easy to eliminate a late-night snack; but meal timing can be a problem for shift workers."One of our research interests is shift workers, who tend to be overweight,

Violent Dreams: RBD May Intensify Over Time

A small study in the Sept. 1 issue of the journal Sleep involved the long-term follow-up of 11 people with REM sleep behavior disorder – or RBD.What is RBD? It is a sleep disorder that causes you to act out vivid dreams as you sleep. Normally your brain paralyzes most muscles during the sleep stage of rapid eye movement (REM) sleep. RBD occurs when the brain fails to keep the muscles still.Does

Sleep Apnea, CPAP & Brain Activity

A study in the Sept. 1 issue of the journal Sleep examined the brain activity of people with obstructive sleep apnea.The study from Italy involved 17 men with OSA who had never been treated. They had an average age of 44 years.At the start of the study the men underwent a neuropsychological evaluation. They were tested in areas such as learning, recall, attention and vigilance. They also

Civilian Life is Interrupted by PTSD and Sleep Disorders for Many Soldiers Returning from Iraq

A new study finds high rates of disturbed sleep among current and former military personnel who served in Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom or Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom.Sleep problems were considerably more common and severe among those with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), reports Military.com. PTSD is an

Chemotherapy Causes Sleep Problems in Breast Cancer Patients

A study published this week in the journal Sleep shows that chemotherapy for Breast Cancer, a disease with which approximately 210,000 women are diagnosed each year, impairs sleep-wake cycles in patients. Sleep disturbances can negatively affect treatment and increase risks for other health and mental problems.Results indicate that chemotherapy patients switched from low to high activity about 30

Unexpected Workplace Hazard: Bullying is Associated with Sleep Disturbances

A study published today in the journal Sleep shows that workplace bullying, one of the leading job stressors and major causes of suicide, is also related to sleep disturbances. Findings of the study are important, as people who do not get enough sleep are at a higher risk for developing health and psychological problems.The study, performed in 2004 in southeast

Student Athletes Sleep Better than their Inactive Peers

A new study in the Journal of Adolescent Health found that teenagers who routinely exercise vigorously have higher quality sleep than their peers.Overall, athletes scored higher in sleep quality and mood and woke fewer times after falling asleep. They also had better daytime concentration and less fatigue. Athletes also scored lower for anxiety and depressive symptoms.The study, conducted in

Working Women Sleep Less than Men

A new study found that women who work full time sleep less than men, reports a University of Cincinnati statement. The study suggests that women often are responsible for most household chores and child care, which can affect their sleep.The study’s researchers conducted a phone survey in which respondents were questioned about work, family and health status in addition to sleep-related

Does Childhood Insomnia Exist?

As children begin to attend school regularly, many become involved in extracurricular and social activities that cut into their sleep time, which may result in insufficient sleep. Although children at any age can have anxiety that affects their ability to sleep, U.S. News & World Report notes that school-age children can develop what may be thought of as "pseudo-insomnia."Parents may worry if

Use of Codeine in Children After a Tonsillectomy Can Be Fatal

According to a new case report, the use of codeine for pain after tonsillectomies can be deadly in children who have a rare gene that causes the body to metabolize the drug at a faster rate than usual.The gene is found in about one percent of white people, but could be present in as many as 30 percent of people of African origins, notes

Do Ads Influence How Babies Sleep?

A new study in Pediatrics found that more than one-third of photographs in advertisements and articles in magazines geared toward women, expectant parents, and parents of young children show babies sleeping on their sides or stomachs, and nearly two-thirds of the pictures show infant sleep environments that increase risk for sudden infant

Snoring & Sleep Apnea: Tips for Bed Partners

The most common warning sign for obstructive sleep apnea is loud and frequent snoring. Often it is followed by silent pauses when breathing stops. Then choking or snorting sounds may occur when breathing resumes.A person who has sleep apnea is usually unaware of the problem. So the bed partner plays a critical role in the identification of these symptoms.But noticing the symptoms of sleep

Real Wives of Sleep Apnea

It certainly doesn’t involve as much drama as being one of the “Real Housewives of Atlanta.” But being a wife of a man with obstructive sleep apnea can be distressing.A new study examined the sleep of 17 OSA wives; they were compared with 17 wives of healthy sleepers. Results were controlled for age and menopausal status.Data analysis shows that OSA wives had lower sleep quality. There was an

Sleep Problems & Kidney Failure

A small study in the Aug. 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine examined the sleep quality of people with both kidney failure and obstructive sleep apnea.The study involved 30 adults with moderate to severe OSA; 12 of them had kidney failure – also called end-stage renal disease. The other 18 people had normal kidney function.Results show that people with normal kidney function

Race & Daytime Sleepiness

Are African-Americans sleepier than whites?Both a 2003 study and a 2006 study reported that African-Americans have higher scores than whites on the Epworth Sleepiness Scale. The ESS measures how likely you are to fall asleep in eight common situations.Why might African-Americans score higher on the ESS? It could be that they are more sleep deprived than whites; or perhaps they are more likely to

OSA, CPAP & Alzheimer’s Disease

A small study in the Aug. 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine involved 10 older adults with both obstructive sleep apnea and Alzheimer’s disease.They had an average age of 76 years and a moderate level of dementia. For six weeks they had used CPAP therapy to treat their OSA. Then five of the people continued using CPAP therapy for a year; the other five stopped using CPAP.Results

Five Risk Factors for Insomnia

A study in the Aug. 1 issue of the journal Sleep examined potential risk factors for insomnia.The study from Quebec involved 464 adults who were good sleepers; they had an average age of 45 years. Participants completed a variety of surveys that evaluated their sleep, mental health and physical well-being. Then they were followed up after six months and again after 12 months.Results show that

Alcohol & Sleep: Nix the Nightcaps

A new survey by the Department of Health in England shows that many people fail to realize that alcohol can have a negative effect on sleep; 58 percent of surveyed drinkers were unaware that drinking can cause sleep problems.One problem is that drinking alcohol may force you to go the bathroom more often during the night. The Department of Health reports that alcohol stops the brain from

Sleep Apnea in Adults with Down Syndrome

A small study in the Aug. 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine shows that untreated obstructive sleep apnea is common in adults with Down syndrome.Results show that 94 percent of people with Down syndrome had OSA; 88 percent had at least moderate OSA with an apnea-hypopnea index of more than 15 breathing pauses per hour of sleep; 69 percent had severe OSA with an AHI of more than 30

Sleep Apnea Increases Death Risk

A new study published today provides strong evidence that severe obstructive sleep apnea increases your risk of death.The study shows that the people with severe OSA were 46 percent more likely to die than those who did not have OSA. The risk of death in people with moderate OSA was increased by 17 percent.The risk of death was even higher in men between the ages of 40 and 70; those with severe

Osteoarthritis: CBT for Insomnia Improves Sleep & Pain

A study in the Aug. 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine involved 51 older adults with osteoarthritis and insomnia.Twenty-three people received cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia; they had an average age of 69 years. Each of the eight weekly CBT sessions lasted two hours; class sizes ranged from four to eight people.CBT uses a variety of methods to help you develop positive

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia: Safe & Effective

A recent article in the Louisville Courier-Journal reminded readers that medications aren’t the only insomnia treatment. Cognitive behavioral therapy is a safe and effective treatment option for people who are struggling with ongoing insomnia.CBT uses a variety of methods to help you develop positive attitudes and habits that promote a healthy pattern of sleep. One common technique is relaxation

Teen Depression: Sleep Cycle is a Risk Marker

A recent study shows that a teen’s sleep pattern may be a marker of his or her risk for developing depression.The study involved 48 teens who were “at risk” for depression; they had a high risk because of a parental history of depression. The at-risk teens were compared with 48 other teens in a control group; these teens had no personal or family history of a mental health problem.The research

The “Short Sleep” Gene: When Six Hours is Enough

A new study reports the discovery of the first gene involved in regulating the length of human sleep. A rare mutation in the “DEC2” gene enables some people to function well on only six hours of sleep per night.“Subjects with the mutation are able to live unaffected by shorter amounts of sleep throughout their lives,” senior author Ying-Hui Fu, PhD, said in a UC San Francisco

Daytime Sleepiness Can Be a Pain

A study in the Aug. 1 issue of the journal Sleep reports that healthy people may be more sensitive to pain if they are sleepy.The study involved 27 healthy, pain-free adults between 18 and 35 years of age. A physical exam, drug screening and lab tests confirmed that they were in good health. An overnight sleep study verified that they didn’t have a sleep disorder such as obstructive sleep

Sleep Loss & Type 2 Diabetes Risk

A new study adds to the evidence that links ongoing sleep loss with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes.The small study involved 11 healthy volunteers; they had a mean age of 39 years. They were slightly overweight with an average body mass index (BMI) of 26.5.The volunteers spent two, 14-day periods in a sleep lab. The two studies were conducted at least three months apart, reports MedPage

Back on Campus: Stress, Sleep & College Life

A new study shows that sleep problems will be common as college students return to campus for the fall semester.The study involved 1,125 students at the University of St. Thomas in St. Paul, Minn. They completed an online survey about their sleep habits, mood, health and related factors.Results show that more than 60 percent were poor sleepers; these students were much more likely to have

Parents: Help Kids Go Back to Sleep for School

You have all the school supplies on the list. You have new outfits or uniforms for your child to wear.(Or you’ve pulled out the clothes that big brother or sister used to wear; they can be “new” again.)In your head you anticipate all the upcoming changes to your daily schedule. It’s time to go back to school. But are your kids ready to go back to sleep?Children tend to shift their sleep schedule

We Sleep to Be Awake

In April the Sleep Education Blog examined the question of why we sleep. Research has been exploring complex answers to this simple question.But a definitive explanation continues to be elusive; the question remains an “unsolved mystery.”Now an editorial by UCLA’s Jerome Siegel suggests that sleep may not fulfill a universal function across all species. Instead sleep appears to be adaptive; its

Lying Awake & Sleeping in Two Shifts

Waking up in the middle of the night and being unable to return to sleep is one sign of insomnia. But a recent story on NPR’s “Morning Edition” suggests that this wasn’t always the case.A period of wakefulness in the middle of the night used to be the norm. At that time there were no lights to turn on at night. When it got dark outside, it was just as dark inside.A winter night can bring 14 hours

Infections May Trigger Narcolepsy

In May the Sleep Education Blog reported that narcolepsy may be an autoimmune disorder. Research suggests that narcolepsy may develop when the immune system attacks and destroys hypocretin-producing brain cells by mistake. Hypocretin is a hormone that helps promote wakefulness.But what causes this immune system response? A study in the Aug. 1 issue of the journal Sleep shows that bacterial

Child Sleep Problems May Begin in the Womb

A study in the Aug. 1 issue of the journal Sleep examined prenatal factors that are related to sleep problems in children.The study involved 289 children born in Finland in 1998; each child was born at term from 37 to 42 weeks of gestation. Sleep was measured by actigraphy for one week when the children were 8 years of age. Parents reported sleep problems and sleep disorder symptoms.Results link

Sibling Risk for Sleep Apnea in Children

A study in the Aug. 1 issue of the journal Sleep examined obstructive sleep apnea among siblings; it found a high “sibling risk” of OSA in both boys and girls.The study group consisted of siblings born between 1978 and 1986; follow-up data were gathered from 1997 to 2004. Hospital records were analyzed for the entire pediatric population in Sweden – 2.7 million children.Children 18 years of age

Insomnia, Sleepiness & Quality of Life in Older Adults

A study in the Aug. 1 issue of the journal Sleep linked insomnia symptoms and daytime sleepiness with quality of life in older adults.The study involved 3,078 adults over the age of 40. Their mean age was 62 years at baseline and 67 years at follow-up.Results show that self-reported sleep problems were related to quality of life. An increase in insomnia symptoms was associated with a decrease in

Sleep Apnea Treatment: What Works Best?

A story today on NPR’s “Morning Edition” discussed treatment options for obstructive sleep apnea and snoring. What is the best treatment for OSA? In June the AASM released a clinical guideline for the evaluation and treatment of sleep apnea; it was published in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine. Here is a summary of the AASM recommendations:1. CPAP TherapyCPAP therapy is the “treatment of

Acupuncture Growing in Popularity

Recently the Sleep Education Blog has reported on two reviews and a new study of acupuncture for insomnia; the evidence to support its use remains limited.But a new government report shows that acupuncture is growing in popularity. The report examined the use of complimentary alternative medicine (CAM) in the U.S. in 2007.It found an overall decrease in visits to CAM providers in 2007 compared

New Study of Electroacupuncture for Insomnia

Last week the Sleep Education Blog reported on a recent review of acupuncture for insomnia. The Hong Kong researchers found that study results are “somewhat promising,” but inconclusive.Now the same research team has published the results of their own study. It appears in today’s issue of the journal Sleep.The study involved a community sample of 60 Chinese adults with a mean age of 48 years; 77

Physical Activity & Improved Sleep in Children

Do children really sleep better if they’ve been more active during the day? A new study from New Zealand may confirm what parents have long suspected.The study involved 519 children who were 7 years old. Their activity was measured for 24 hours by an actigraph that they wore on their waist.Results show that children who were more active during the day fell asleep faster at night. As their mean

Sleep Apnea & Bariatric Surgery Risk

Last week the Sleep Education Blog reported that bariatric surgery may reduce the severity of obstructive sleep apnea; but it doesn’t cure the problem.What about safety? Is weight-loss surgery a risky procedure?A study published today examined the short-term risks of bariatric surgery. It measured adverse outcomes in the 30 days after surgery.People in the study had an average age of 44.5 years;

Sleep Paralysis: The Devil, the Ghost & the Old Hag

You’re waking up or falling asleep, and suddenly you’re unable to move. Your body becomes paralyzed as if an unseen weight is upon you.You may be unable to move your arms or legs, body and head. You can breathe and think, but you may be unable to speak. The paralysis may last for only seconds or a few minutes. Then it disappears and you are able to move again.This describes a typical episode

Sleep in Space

Space shuttle Endeavour launched on Wed., July 15, from NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida. Today the shuttle undocked from the International Space Station.After 13 days in space, how has the shuttle’s crew been sleeping? Surprisingly well, MSNBC reports."We sleep very well in space,” Endeavour astronaut Julie Payette told reporters. “Can you imagine? We have a sleeping bag each, and when you

Child Sleep Problems & Early Substance Use

Are children with sleep problems more likely to begin drinking, smoking or using drugs? A new study provides some insight.The ongoing, longitudinal study involved children selected from a community sample of “high-risk” families; 292 boys and 94 girls participated.Results show a gender difference; childhood sleep problems were more likely to predict early onset of substance use in boys than

How to Help Your Child Sleep Better

A new study confirmed that poor “sleep hygiene” has a negative effect on the sleep patterns of young children.The study analyzed data from a national poll of 1,473 parents and caregivers; their children ranged in age from newborns to 10-year-olds. The poll included questions on sleep habits and sleep patterns.Having a late bedtime after 9 p.m. was associated with sleep problems across all ages.

A Gluten-Free Diet for Restless Legs Syndrome?

A small study reports that celiac disease is a possible cause of low iron levels in some people who have restless legs syndrome.The study involved four people with RLS and low iron stores in the body. They also tested positive for celiac disease.Results show that a gluten-free diet reduced RLS symptoms in all four people. Two of the people were able to stop taking their RLS medication; the other

High Blood Pressure & Obstructive Sleep Apnea

A new study adds to the evidence linking obstructive sleep apnea to an increased risk of high blood pressure.The study involved 529 men and 207 women with OSA. The severity of their sleep apnea varied widely.Their average apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) ranged from five to 197 breathing pauses per hour of sleep; the mean AHI was 36. An AHI of more than 30 is considered “severe” OSA.Participants with

Acupuncture for Insomnia: Another Review

Is acupuncture an effective treatment for insomnia? In February the Sleep Education Blog reported on a scientific review of the evidence.The researchers were from Emory University; they found that acupuncture has potential as an insomnia treatment. But there is only limited evidence to support its use.A new review from Hong Kong provides another perspective. The review looked at both Chinese

Regular Exercise & Teen Sleep

A new study suggests that regular exercise can lead to multiple improvements in the sleep of teens.The study involved 12 teen athletes who got about 14 hours of vigorous exercise per week. They were compared with 12 controls who exercised for only 1.5 hours per week. Their sleep was evaluated following a day without exercise.Results show that the athletes took less time to fall asleep. They also

Obstructive Sleep Apnea & Depression

A new study examined the rate of obstructive sleep apnea in people with major depressive disorder and insomnia.The study involved 51 people with both depression and insomnia; they were evaluated by an overnight sleep study.Results show a high rate of OSA in people with depression and insomnia; 39 percent of the people had an apnea-hypopnea index (AHI) of 15 or more breathing pauses per hour of

Do All Animals Sleep?

Over the weekend a New York Times editorial longingly observed how “effortlessly” farm animals seem to sleep. In contrast, people seem to work at sleeping – or at avoiding sleep as much as possible.“What a lot of shut-eye all the other species get, and how sleep-deprived humans seem in comparison!” the editorial lamented. “To grasp the force of human culture, all you have to do is consider how

Does Bariatric Surgery Cure Sleep Apnea?

In February the Sleep Education Blog reported on the use of bariatric surgery to treat obstructive sleep apnea. A small study found that surgery did provide some benefits; but it wasn’t a cure for OSA.Now a new study takes a broader look at the evidence. The systematic review analyzed 12 studies involving 342 people.Bariatric surgery did reduce the severity of obesity; the average body mass index

Sleep Music: A Jewel “Lullaby” & Relaxation CDs

The new 15-track CD “Lullaby” from three-time Grammy nominee Jewel is an acoustic ode to sleep.Released in May, the self-produced release features 10 original songs such as “Sweet Dreams.” The other songs are classic lullabies such as “Twinkle, Twinkle” and “Brahms’ Lullaby.”“This isn’t just a ‘kids’ album, it’s really a mood album – perfect to relax to at the end of a long day,” Jewel said in a

A Melatonin Patch May Help Shift Workers Sleep During the Day

A nicotine patch is commonly used by people who want to quit smoking. A small dose of nicotine enters the blood by being absorbed through the skin.Can this method of “transdermal delivery” be used for a sleep aid such as melatonin? A new report provides positive results from a small study.The study involved eight people. They were given an eight-hour opportunity to sleep during the daytime. This

Understanding Unusual Ambien Side Effects

A new study may help explain why some people have unusual side effects when taking the sleep aid zolpidem – also known as Ambien.Reuters reports that the drug can shut down brain circuits that normally inhibit some activity. This may release the brakes on other brain circuits while you sleep.“In a way, Ambien is awakening other circuits because the brakes are not in place," study co-author Molly

George Dawes Green’s Free-Running Circadian Rhythm Sleep Disorder

What would life be like if your sleep and wake times drifted later every day? How hard would it be if you began falling asleep in the morning, then in the afternoon, then in the evening as weeks went by?Just ask George Dawes Green, best-selling author of The Juror. USA Today describes how he sleeps around the clock because of this rare sleep disorder.It is a circadian rhythm sleep disorder that

Obama White House: No Time for Sleep?

An important speech in Russia on Tuesday. The G-8 Summit in Italy on Wednesday. A visit to the Vatican in Rome on Friday. Another speech in Ghana on Saturday. Back to the White House to introduce the nominee for the U.S. Surgeon General yesterday.Keeping up with President Obama is no easy task. It requires a pace that often leaves little time for White House staffers to sleep, the Washington Post

Sleep Apnea: Microsoft Developing a Diagnostic Device

The 10th annual Microsoft Research Faculty Summit is taking place today and tomorrow in Redmond, Wash. The summit brings leading academic researchers and educators together with Microsoft® researchers.The theme of the 2009 summit is “Addressing World-Scale Challenges.” One of the challenges on the agenda is the diagnosis of obstructive sleep apnea.Tomorrow from 2:30 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. there will

Untreated Sleep Apnea Affects Job Performance

Two new studies show that untreated obstructive sleep apnea can have a negative impact on job performance.A study in the June 1 issue of the journal Sleep involved 150 people; they were all referred to a sleep center in California for suspected sleep apnea. Their average age was 44 years; each of them was employed at the time of the study.An overnight sleep study confirmed the presence of sleep

Craig David: “Insomnia” from a Broken Heart

British R&B star Craig David is in love, and he can’t sleep – at least in his song lyrics. His single “Insomnia” spent nine weeks on the Billboard Pop 100 Airplay chart, peaking at #62.In 2000 the 19-year-old David became the youngest British male solo artist to have a number-one single. But he’s still trying to build momentum for his music in the U.S.“Insomnia” describes what happens to his

Regis Philbin’s Sleep Study Results: It’s Sleep Apnea

Who wants to feel like a millionaire? Talk show and game show host Regis Philbin says that he does.The Emmy Award-winning TV personality can’t get a good night’s sleep. Regis said that he wakes up multiple times during the night.And after waking up it can be a struggle to get back to sleep. As a result he rarely feels his best during the day.For years he’s been complaining about his sleep

Drowsy Driving: Mercedes, SAAB Develop Prevention Systems

Car makers Mercedes-Benz and SAAB are both using high-tech systems to help prevent drowsy-driving accidents.Mercedes introduced its Attention Assist system as a standard feature of the 2010 E-Class. Sensors measure more than 70 parameters to monitor your alertness.They keep track of your speed and acceleration. The sensors record your use of turn indicators and pedals. They even take into account

Drowsy Sailing: Sleep Deprivation & the U.S. Navy Port Royal Accident

The Honolulu Advertiser reports that sleep loss and fatigue may have been factors in the Feb. 5 grounding of the USS Port Royal, a guided-missile cruiser.The ship’s captain told the Navy Safety Investigation Board that he was tired when the ship got under way. He got less than five hours of sleep in the previous 24 hours; in the three days leading up to the incident he slept for a total of only

Online CBT for Insomnia: Using the Internet to Get Some “SHUTi”

Research continues to show that online cognitive behavioral therapy may be an effective treatment for adults with ongoing insomnia.A new study involved 44 people with an average age of 45 years. They had struggled with insomnia for an average of more than 10 years; most of the participants were women.Half of the group was put on a wait list as a control; the other half completed a nine-week,

Bedwetting & Obstructive Sleep Apnea in Children

A new study shows that “nocturnal enuresis” – bedwetting – is common in children with obstructive sleep apnea.The study involved 149 children with some degree of sleep apnea – from minimal to severe. They were compared with 139 children in a control group. All children were between 5 and 15 years of age.Results show that 80 percent of children with a bedwetting problem had some degree of sleep

Sleep Duration & Risk of Death

The AASM reports that most adults need about seven to eight hours of nightly sleep to feel alert and well rested during the day. But is it dangerous if you regularly get less sleep or more sleep? Does “short sleep” or “long sleep” increase your risk of death?A new study took a look at the evidence. The systematic review analyzed data from other studies. In each study sleep duration was measured

Brain Activity & Muscle Force in Morning and Evening Types

A new study measured changes in brain activity and muscle force from morning to night in morning and evening types.The study involved 18 people. Nine were “evening types” who prefer to stay up late at night and sleep late in the morning; nine were “morning types” who prefer to go to bed early and wake up early. Data were collected four times in one day: at 9 a.m., 1 p.m., 5 p.m. and 9 p.m.Results

Michael Jackson’s Struggle with Insomnia

The Associated Press reports today that Michael Jackson struggled with severe and chronic insomnia. A nurse told the AP that he wanted to obtain the drug propofol - also known as Diprivan - to help him sleep.Diprivan is a powerful sedative that is injected into a vein. It is given to patients before an operation or medical test.Jackson’s insomnia may have had a variety of causes.The AP reports

Michael Jackson’s Death & Prescription Drug Abuse

Soon after Michael Jackson’s death questions arose about his possible abuse of prescription drugs. Five days later those questions remain. Investigators recently took more medications from the rented house where Jackson collapsed.The controversy has focused attention on the nationwide problem of prescription drug abuse. The risk of addiction extends far beyond the rich and famous.The National

Sleep Deprivation: Your Genetic Vulnerability

Why does sleep deprivation affect some people more than others? A new study found that it has to do with your brain’s response to sleep loss.The study involved two groups of people. Members of one group all had a short variant of the PERIOD3 gene. The authors report that people with this genetic variant are more resilient to sleep loss; they tend to function well even after a period of sleep

“Bonne Nuit”: Sleep Lessons from France

In May the Sleep Education Blog reported that people in France rank first in the world in getting the most sleep. One reason they get more sleep than Americans may be that they work four fewer hours per week.Author Mireille Guiliano recently offered her own perspective on the sleeping prowess of the French. Guiliano grew up in provincial France and was educated in Paris. Currently she resides in

Insomnia & HIV

Today is National HIV Testing Day. The CDC estimates that 1.1 million adults and teens in the U.S. were living with HIV at the end of 2006. Twenty-one percent of these people had not been diagnosed.A review in the June 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine reports that insomnia is common in people with HIV. Some studies estimate that as many as 70 percent of people with HIV have

Sleep & Memory: “Replay” to Remember

A study published yesterday reports that the role of sleep in memory consolidation has been confirmed.The study involved mice that ran a maze and then slept. Electrodes monitored their brain activity. While awake the brains of the mice “mapped” the pattern of the maze. Results show that their brains “replayed” this pattern during slow-wave sleep."Ours is the first study to demonstrate this

Big Dreams: From Google to Monster

Dreams have no meaning? Don’t tell that to Larry Page. Or Jeff Taylor.Page recently said that a dream sparked the idea that became the world’s largest search engine. This is how the Google co-founder explained it in his commencement address at the University of Michigan:You know what it's like to wake up in the middle of the night with a vivid dream? And you know how, if you don't have a pencil

Sleep Apnea & Abnormal Heart Rhythms in Older Men

A new study examines the link between sleep apnea and “cardiac arrhythmias” – abnormal heart rhythms.The study involved 2,911 older men. Sleep apnea was measured during an overnight sleep study. Heart monitoring detected two groups of abnormal heart rhythms: atrial fibrillation or flutter (AF), and complex ventricular ectopy (CVE).Results show that the general risk of AF and CVE increased as the

Taming Violent Dreams: Treating REM Sleep Behavior Disorder

A new study in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine reports that there are effective treatment options for people with REM sleep behavior disorder.People who have RBD act out vivid, action-packed dreams while remaining asleep. Injuries to the dreamer or a bed partner are common.RBD often is treated with clonazepam, a long-acting sedative. But the study reports that some side effects of this

Overcoming Jet Lag with the Help of a Computer Program

A new study published on June 19 shows that mathematical models can be used to design effective treatment schedules for jet lag. The tools were used to create optimal schedules for bright light therapy.The system was tested on a simulated 12-hour shift of a sleep-wake schedule. This is similar to what a person would experience when traveling from New York to Hong Kong. Simulation results show

Shakespeare & Sleep Disorders: To Sleep, or Not to Sleep

An article in the June 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine reports that Shakespeare “had a very good eye for sleep disorders.”The article explores the pages of Othello. It cites passages that contain references to sleep and sleep disorders. One passage describes how sleep deprivation will be used as a tool for persuasion.Another passage presents a clear description of sleep talking

REM Sleep Enhances Creativity

A new study reports that rapid eye movement sleep – or “REM sleep” – enhances creative problem solving.Participants completed a creativity task in the morning. Afterward, some took a nap that included REM sleep; some took a nap without REM sleep; and some simply rested quietly. Then they were tested on the creativity task in the afternoon.Results show that REM sleep enhanced the integration of

Cooling the Brain to Treat Insomnia

A study presented last week at SLEEP 2009 proposed that “cooling the brain” may be a new way to treat insomnia.The study states that insomnia is associated with increased metabolism in the brain’s frontal cortex. This occurs during the stage of non-REM sleep. Cooling the brain – “cerebral hypothermia” – has reduced metabolic activity in other medical conditions. Can it work for insomnia?The

Surprised by Sleep Apnea: Women, Weight & OSA

Earlier this week Washington Post staff writer Valerie Strauss shared how she discovered that she has obstructive sleep apnea.The sleep disorder was undetected by some doctors she had seen. And the discovery was a surprise to her. She didn’t fit the description of the typical sleep apnea patient.Often it is overweight men who have sleep apnea. But as the AASM has reported, women can have sleep

Diabetes, Sleep Apnea & REM Sleep

A new study in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine links obstructive sleep apnea to type 2 diabetes. It shows that there is an increased risk of diabetes in people who have sleep apnea during rapid eye movement sleep – or “REM sleep.”The multi-ethnic study involved 1,008 people who were evaluated for sleep apnea; 67 percent were African American, 17 percent were Caucasian and 15 percent were

Tired & Fatigued: CPAP Improves Daytime Symptoms of Sleep Apnea

Excessive daytime sleepiness is a common symptom of obstructive sleep apnea.But a new study in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine shows that many people with sleep apnea have other complaints: fatigue, tiredness or a lack of energy. The study also shows that treating sleep apnea with CPAP therapy can help reduce all of these symptoms.The study involved 313 people with sleep apnea. They had an

Sleep Improves Sports Performance

A study that was presented last week at SLEEP 2009 in Seattle, Wash., adds to the evidence that sleep can improve sports performance.The ongoing study at Stanford involved five members of the women’s tennis team. They maintained their regular sleep routine for two to three weeks during the season. Then they extended their sleep to 10 hours per night for five to six weeks. Performance was measured

Sleep & Marriage

A study that was presented last week at SLEEP 2009 in Seattle, Wash., examined the effect of marriage on sleep.The study involved 360 middle-aged women with an average age of 51 years. They reported their relationship status at annual visits. Their sleep also was monitored for three nights.Results show that women who were stably married had better subjective and objective sleep than unmarried

Sleep Apnea & Wind Musicians

A study that was presented this week at SLEEP 2009 in Seattle, Wash., adds to the recent interest in wind instruments and obstructive sleep apnea.The study surveyed a national sample of professional musicians. There were 760 instrumentalists, as well as 87 conductors and vocalists. They had an average of 30 years of experience; they also

Virtual Reality: Video Games & Sleep Loss

A study that was presented this week at SLEEP 2009 in Seattle, Wash., reports that excessive video-game playing can interfere with your sleep. The study involved 137 college students. They had an average age of 22 years; 63 percent were women. Casual game players were compared with excessive game players. “Excessive” was defined as playing more than seven hours per week. Results show

Race, Sleep & Obesity

A study that was presented this week at SLEEP 2009 in Seattle, Wash., examined the link between race, sleep and obesity.The study involved 29,818 U.S. adults. The data came from the 2005 National Health Interview Survey. Information was collected during face-to-face interviews. Results show that 52 percent of blacks and 38 percent of

Who Sleeps Better?

A study being presented today at SLEEP 2009 in Seattle, Wash., examined sleep complaints in the U.S. Results show major differences based on marital status, income, employment and education.The study examined CDC data involving 159,856 people. They were asked how often they had trouble falling asleep, staying asleep or sleeping too much. “Sleep disturbance” was defined as seven or more days of

Treating Insomnia with Yoga & Meditation

A study being presented today at SLEEP 2009 in Seattle, Wash., reports that an effective treatment for insomnia may be “Kriya Yoga.” This is a type of meditation that combines different yoga techniques.The small pilot study involved 11 adults with chronic primary insomnia. They were between the ages of 25 and 45 years. Seven of them practiced Kriya Yoga for two months; four of them only

Insomnia Linked to Increased Risk of Death

A study being presented today at SLEEP 2009 in Seattle, Wash., links insomnia with short sleep duration to increased mortality. This risk was found in men. The study also found an increased risk in women; but it was not statistically significant.The study involved 1,741 adults. Their sleep was monitored in a sleep lab. Then they were followed up for 10 to 14 years.Results show that the

Sleep Loss & Performance: Missing the Bull’s-Eye

A new study from England used the game of darts to measure the effect of sleep loss on performance. Sixty people had to throw 20 darts at a target; they were tested five times per day for accuracy and reliability.They were tested once after a normal night of seven to eight hours of sleep. Then they were tested after a night of partial sleep loss; they went to bed four hours later than normal but

Risk of Depression in “Evening Types” and “Morning Types”

A new study examines how chronotype may be related to depression. Is the risk of depression greater in “evening types” (“night owls”) or “morning types” (“morning larks”)?The study involved 200 healthy adults between the ages of 18 and 99 years. Results show that people who are “evening types” have a higher risk of severe depressive symptoms.MSNBC reports that evening types went to bed around

Wii Sleep: A Nintendo Solution for Insomnia?

In January the Sleep Education Blog reported on the benefits of playing the old-school video game Tetris; it can be a visual distraction that may reduce flashbacks and nightmares after a stressful event.Now Nintendo is developing a video game application that is light years ahead of Tetris; the Wii Vitality Sensor may even help you fall asleep.Nintendo introduced the device at E3 (Electronic

NBA Finals: A West Coast Advantage for the Lakers?

Game one of the NBA Finals between the Lakers and Magic will tip off a little after 9 p.m. EDT tonight. The Lakers will have the home-court advantage in the seven-game series; a study in the journal Sleep shows that they also may have a West Coast advantage.The study analyzed 8,495 regular-season NBA games over eight seasons. The researchers did not find that jet lag had a major influence on the

Treating Nightmares in Children with Imagery Rehearsal Therapy

Imagery rehearsal therapy is an effective way to treat adults with nightmare disorder. A new study from Canada shows that it also can be helpful for children.The small study involved 11 boys and nine girls between 9 and 11 years of age. Each child had a moderate or severe nightmare problem; they had one nightmare or more per week for at least six months. None of the children had post-traumatic

Large Tonsils Aren’t the Only Cause of Sleep Apnea in Children

Excess body weight is a major risk factor for obstructive sleep apnea in adults. In children, sleep apnea often occurs when a child has large tonsils and adenoids.But a new study in the journal Sleep shows that the causes of sleep apnea in children are complex. You can’t put all of the blame on the tonsils; weight and nasal problems also play a role in child sleep apnea.The study involved 700

Internet Intervention: Online Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia

Research has shown that cognitive behavioral therapy is an effective treatment option for chronic insomnia. But can online CBT help you sleep better?Some health insurers think so. In November the L.A. Times reported that online CBT for insomnia is covered by some insurance providers.Now a new study published today in the journal Sleep adds to the evidence supporting online CBT for insomnia.

Preventing Parasomnias: Get Plenty of Sleep

Parasomnias such as sleepwalking involve actions over which you have no deliberate control. You remain asleep or in a sleep-like state during an episode. As a result you are unaware of what is taking place. You are unable to make conscious decisions during the event.This makes it important for you to act before an episode occurs. Preventing parasomnias will reduce unwanted sleep disturbances for

Obstructive Sleep Apnea & Daytime Sleepiness

Excessive daytime sleepiness is a common warning sign for obstructive sleep apnea. But not everyone with sleep apnea feels sleepy during the day.Sleep apnea involves a wide range of severity levels. A person with mild sleep apnea may stop breathing five or ten times an hour during sleep. In contrast a person with severe sleep apnea may stop breathing 30 or more times per hour.Each breathing pause

Insomnia: When Should You Get Help?

Insomnia is the most common sleep complaint; everyone has trouble sleeping at times. So how do you know when your insomnia is severe enough that you should seek help?This is what sleep specialist Dr. Donna Arand told the AASM:“You should seek help when these three statements all describe your insomnia:1. The insomnia has lasted more than three weeks.2. It is not improving.3. It is interfering

Violent Dreams: Who Has REM Sleep Behavior Disorder?

People who have REM sleep behavior disorder act out vivid, action-packed dreams as they sleep. Who is likely to have RBD?It is most common in men over the age of 50. But a new study from London confirms that it can occur in other people as well.The study reviewed a sleep center’s case files from the previous seven years. Ninety-one people had been diagnosed with RBD during that time: 62 men and

Wired: Technology, Caffeine Keeping Teens Awake at Night

Technology-savvy teens can excel at multi-tasking. They can send text messages, surf the Internet and watch their favorite TV show all at the same time.But a new study shows that technology may be taking a toll on their sleep. Many teens are staying up too late and consuming too much caffeine. As a result, they’re not getting enough sleep to remain alert during the day.The study involved students

House Resolution Raises Awareness of Sleep Apnea

Rep. Gus Bilirakis, R-Fla., recently introduced a resolution in the U.S. House of Representatives to raise awareness of sleep apnea. The resolution “encourages all Americans to educate themselves and others about the consequences of sleep apnea and its potential treatments.”What are these consequences? The resolution points out that “untreated sleep apnea can lead to high blood pressure, heart

People with Kidney Failure Get Help While They Sleep

Treatment for renal failure – kidney failure – can be exhausting. Blood is drawn from the body, cleaned and pumped back into the body.This grueling process is called dialysis. It can take three to four hours and can cause severe fatigue. Then the treatment has to be repeated three times each week.But ABC 7 in Denver reports that some dialysis clinics now offer to perform the treatment while

Restless Legs Syndrome in the “Phantom” Leg of an Amputee

A recent report provides an unusual look at restless legs syndrome. The report describes an amputee who developed RLS in his “phantom” leg.The 54-year-old man had his left leg amputated 22 years ago. He developed RLS in his remaining leg. Episodes of RLS also occurred to the leg that had been amputated.Treatment with medication improved his symptoms. Movement of his leg and “phantom movement” of

Sleep & Memory: “That Face Looks Familiar”

Studies show that there is a strong link between sleep and memory. A new study even examines how sleep affects memory for face identity. Does sleep help you recognize a familiar face?The study involved 112 volunteers; their average age was 25 years. Each participant was shown 60 computer-generated faces in random order. The heads were bald, and the faces had no unique features such as a mole

Undiagnosed Sleep Apnea is Common in People with Diabetes

A new study confirms that undiagnosed obstructive sleep apnea is common in people with type 2 diabetes.The study involved 306 obese adults with type 2 diabetes. Each participant was monitored during an overnight sleep study.Results show that almost 87 percent of participants had undiagnosed sleep apnea. Almost 23 percent of participants had severe sleep apnea; they stopped breathing at least 30

Losing Weight with CPAP for Sleep Apnea

Excess body weight is a major risk factor for obstructive sleep apnea. Treating sleep apnea with CPAP helps some people bring their weight under control.In some cases the change is dramatic. NorthWest Cable News in Seattle reports that CPAP helped one woman lose more than 100 pounds in a little more than a year. She used to weigh more than 300 pounds.Then she was diagnosed with sleep apnea and

Combining Cognitive Behavioral Therapy with a Medication to Treat Insomnia

For people with insomnia, taking a medication can help break the cycle of sleepless nights. And cognitive behavioral therapy can lead to long-lasting improvements with little risk of side effects. But what happens when you combine these two treatments?A new study helps to answer this question. The results were published today in The Journal of the American Medical Association.The study involved

Do the Babies of Depressed Moms Have More Sleep Disturbances?

A small study in the journal Sleep examined the sleep of babies born to mothers who struggle with depression.Results show that these babies are more likely to have disturbed sleep at 2 weeks of age. These sleep problems remain present at the age of 6 months.The study involved 18 healthy, full-term babies. Seven “low-risk” infants were born to women with no history of depression. Eleven “high-risk

Study Links ADHD to Sleep Problems in Older Children & Teens

A study in the journal Sleep examines sleep problems in older children and teens with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder.Results show that older children and teens are more likely to have a variety of sleep problems if they were diagnosed with ADHD when they were younger. These problems include insomnia, sleep terrors, nightmares, bruxism and snoring.Study author Dr. Susan Shur-Fen Gau told

Treating Nightmares with Imagery Rehearsal Therapy

It’s bad enough to have your sleep disrupted by a nightmare. It’s even worse when recurring episodes of disturbing dreams turn into a nightmare disorder.This is a common problem for soldiers and other people who have post-traumatic stress disorder. Their dreams often replay a disturbing event in a way that seems shockingly real.But the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette reports that treatment can help break

Do Dentures Affect Sleep Apnea?

Obstructive sleep apnea is common at all ages. But it occurs even more often in the transition from middle-aged to older-aged adults. For older adults with sleep apnea, do dentures affect their breathing during sleep?A new study from Japan found mixed results. The study involved 34 adults who wear complete dentures. Their average age was 72.5 years. Twenty seven of the participants had at least

STOP to Find Out if You Are at Risk for Sleep Apnea

A new study confirms that the "STOP questionnaire" is a useful tool for predicting your risk of obstructive sleep apnea. So what’s your risk?To find out, answer these four simple, yes or no “STOP” questions:S: Do you SNORE loudly (louder than talking or loud enough to be heard through closed doors)?T: Do you often feel TIRED, fatigued, or sleepy during daytime?O: Has anyone OBSERVED you stop

How Sleep Disorders May Affect Your Dreams

Sleep disorders can reduce both the quantity and quality of your sleep. Can they also affect your dreams?A new review examined the current research. Only a small number of studies have focused on this subject. But results suggest that a couple of common sleep disorders may have an impact on your dreams.People with insomnia are more likely to recall their dreams. The content of their dreams tends

The “Don't Let the Bed Bugs Bite Act of 2009”

Earlier this year the Sleep Education Blog reported on the recent resurgence of bed bugs. Now Rep. G.K. Butterfield of North Carolina is sponsoring federal legislation to fight back.H.R. 2248 was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives on May 5. It is called the “Don't Let the Bed Bugs Bite Act of 2009.” The bill would “establish a grant program to assist States in inspecting hotel rooms

“Brain Music”: Sleeping Better by Listening to the Music of Your Mind

According to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, your brain has its own music soundtrack. And this “brain music” just might help you sleep better.The DHS wants to help emergency responders sleep well when they end a stressful shift. So it is studying the use of “brain music.”How is this music recorded? The Loudoun Times-Mirror in Virginia reports that you wear a skullcap that contains EEG

Can You Treat Sleep Apnea with Tongue and Throat Exercises?

Obstructive sleep apnea involves pauses in breathing during sleep. These breathing pauses occur when the tongue and soft tissue of the throat collapse and block the airway.What if you exercised the tongue and the throat muscles each day? Would strengthening and toning these muscles prevent your airway from collapsing?This idea gained support from a small study in 2006. Sleep apnea severity

Mother’s Day: Restless Legs, Sleepless Moms

Every mom deserves a good night of sleep for Mother’s Day. But good sleep can be especially hard to come by for women with restless legs syndrome.RLS involves a strong, almost irresistible urge to move your legs. This urge gets worse at night and eases in the morning. The need to move your legs increases when you lie or sit still. Temporary relief can be found by walking or moving the legs.Often

NHL Playoffs: Is Sleep the Secret to Vancouver’s Success?

The NBA’s Portland Trail Blazers weren’t the only pro sports team getting advice from a sleep doctor this year. Canada’s CBC Sports reports that the NHL’s Vancouver Canucks followed a similar sleep strategy this season.The results for both teams were positive. The Blazers took a 54-28 record into the first round of the playoffs. The Canucks finished the regular season 45-27-10. Then they swept

New Study Suggests that Narcolepsy is an Autoimmune Disorder

Scientists have made another major breakthrough in understanding the sleep disorder narcolepsy. A new study suggests that it is an autoimmune disorder.Results show that people with narcolepsy are more likely to have a unique variant of a specific gene belonging to T cells. These cells play an important role in the response of the immune system.“Our discovery clearly shows narcolepsy is an

Sleep Around the World: What about Children?

As the Sleep Education Blog reported, the OECD recently compared the sleep times of people in 18 countries. It found that people in Korea and Japan get the least sleep; people in the U.S. have the second-highest daily sleep time. The U.S. time use survey involved people who were 15 years of age and older.But what about children? Are there differences around the world in how long children normally

Sleep in America: A Closer Look at the Time Use Survey Data

Yesterday, the Sleep Education Blog described a new OECD report. It states that the U.S. ranks second in the world in average daily sleep time. Today, let’s take a closer look at the survey data.The OECD report states that survey methods may vary to some degree between the 18 participating countries. In the U.S., the American Time Use Survey includes people 15 years of age and older.The survey is

Sleep Around the World: France Ranks First, U.S. Second

A new OECD report compares 2006 time use surveys from 18 countries. Results show that people in France report getting the most sleep at about 8.8 hours per day.The U.S. ranks second, just 12 minutes behind at about 8.6 hours of sleep per day. People in Korea and Japan get the least sleep at about 7.8 hours per day.Why do the French get more sleep than Americans? One reason may be that they work

Sleep & the H1N1 “Swine Flu” Virus

The H1N1 flu virus, or “swine flu,” has infected people in 20 countries. This includes people in the U.S., Canada and Mexico. How can you protect yourself from this new virus?The CDC advises you to get plenty of sleep. This will help your body to maintain a strong immune system.In January the Sleep Education Blog reported on a study linking sleep and the immune system. Participants were exposed

An Early Bedtime May Improve Your Heart Health

A new study shows that going to bed before midnight may be good for your health. You may be less likely to have hardened arteries.The study involved 251 healthy men. They were all younger than 61 years of age. They had an annual check up to measure their health. They also reported their typical bedtime and sleep duration.The men were put into three groups based on their self-reported sleep

Violent Sleep: Acting Out Dreams & Nightmares

CBS 2 News in Los Angeles reports on REM sleep behavior disorder, or RBD. Note: Parents should be aware that the video on the CBS Web site may not be appropriate for children.People who have RBD act out vivid dreams and nightmares as they sleep. The dreams tend to be action-packed. The dreamer may punch, kick, jump or get out of bed and run. All of this occurs while he or she is still

Help Your Infant or Toddler Sleep with This Simple Bedtime Routine

The solution to your child’s sleep problems might be a bedtime routine. A new study in the journal Sleep shows that a nightly routine helps young children sleep better.What was the routine? The first step was for mothers to give their child a bath. The second step was to give a massage to infants or apply lotion to toddlers. The third step was to engage their child in quiet activities. This might

Sleep Apnea May Affect Stroke Outcome & Recovery

A new study shows that the effects of a stroke may be more severe in people who have obstructive sleep apnea.The study involved 174 people who had a stroke. Their risk for sleep apnea was assessed by questionnaire. Results show that 60 percent had a high risk for sleep apnea. Seven participants had already been diagnosed with sleep apnea.Having a high risk for sleep apnea was a predictor for

More than Insomnia: Other Sleep Disorders Are Common in Older Adults

Many older adults struggle with insomnia. Now a new study shows that in older adults other sleep disorders are common too.The study involved 892 people between the ages of 70 and 89. Results show that 59 percent had signs of at least one sleep disorder other than insomnia.Data were gathered by questionnaire. Symptoms were reported by a person who sleeps in the same room as the

Study Links Sleep Loss to ADHD Symptoms in Children

A new study links sleep loss to behavioral symptoms of attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder in children.The study in Finland involved 280 children. They had an average age of 8 years.Results show that children who slept less than 7.7 hours at night had a higher score for hyperactivity and impulsivity. They also had a higher total score on the ADHD Rating Scale.The results were significant.

Morning Larks vs. Night Owls: A Circadian Alertness Advantage?

People who are larks function better in the morning. Night owls are more alert in the evening. But which “chronotype” enables people to function better over the length of a day?A new study in Science takes a look. It involved 16 early morning risers and 15 night owls. They performed alertness tests in a brain scanner after following their normal sleep schedule.Newsweek and Science report that

Valerian Fails to Improve Sleep in Older Women with Insomnia

A new study adds to the evidence that valerian is an ineffective treatment for insomnia.The study involved 16 women with an average age of 69 years. All of the women had insomnia. They were given either 300 mg of valerian extract or a placebo 30 minutes before bedtime for two weeks.The study found that the effect of valerian was no different than the placebo after one dose or after two weeks.

How Children Affect a Mother’s Sleep-Wake Rhythm

Some women may have a natural tendency to be a “night owl.” But a new study shows that their sleep-wake rhythm may change after they have children.The study involved 179 women. Some were mothers, some were pregnant, and some had no children.Results show that women with children are more likely to be “morning types.” This means they would have a stronger tendency to go to bed early and wake up

What’s Your Chronotype? Understanding the “Lark” and “Owl” Circadian Sleep Patterns

A New York Times column examines the factors that contribute to your preferred sleep schedule. This is also called your “chronotype.” It turns out that your DNA has a strong influence on when you like to sleep.Some people have a circadian clock that makes them “evening types.” These “owls” have a natural tendency to stay up late at night and sleep late in the morning. Children tend to become

Sleep Problems Increase Cancer Pain

A new study in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine shows that sleep problems may lead to increased pain and fatigue in cancer patients.Previous research has shown that sleep problems are common in people who have cancer. A 2007 study in the journal Sleep found that 41 percent of people with cancer reported having chronic insomnia.So why are the results of this new study surprising? It was

Sleep and Memory: Remembering & Forgetting

A new article in Newsweek provides an overview of how “sleeping on it” improves memory.Forming memories. Consolidating memories. Making connections between memories. Sleep appears to play an important role in all these processes.Another Newsweek article examines whether or not we can learn to forget. New research shows that memory “reconsolidation” may be possible.Being able to change long-term

I Have No Control Over My Racing Mind

Many people with insomnia complain that their thoughts race out of control at bedtime. This complaint is typical of psychophysiological insomnia.This form of insomnia involves a state of “hyperarousal” at bedtime. Often your thoughts focus on your inability to sleep. As a result you may try harder to fall asleep. But this effort may cause you to stay awake even longer.But the belief that you have

NBA Fans Can Get a Little More Sleep

Basketball fans can look forward to an earlier bedtime as they enjoy the 2009 NBA playoffs, which tip off today. But only one hour earlier…and only on Sunday nights…and only during the NBA Finals.Earlier this season the NBA announced a slight change to the playoff schedule. Sunday night games during the Finals will begin around 8 p.m. EDT instead of 9 p.m.First-round games in the Eastern

Research Catching Up to Jet Lag

Results from a new study in Current Biology may lead to more effective treatments for jet lag and shift work sleep disorder.Both sleep disorders involve a disruption to your body’s circadian timing system. This system regulates the timing of when you sleep and wake.The study shows that this disruption occurs in two separate groups of neurons in the brain. It also involves two different sleep

How White Noise & Sound Machines Can Help You Sleep

“White Noise” would have been a great name for an ‘80s rock band. Sort of a cross between Whitesnake and Quiet Riot.Instead it’s music to the ears of many insomnia sufferers. And like a popular rock band, white noise has a large fan base.A recent article from Columbia News Service reports that there are 20 white noise-related groups on Facebook. And demand was so high for the eight-sound White