Rem sleep
REM Sleep
REM sleep (pronounced /rɛm/ sleep), also known as Rapid Eye Movement sleep, is a unique phase of sleep in mammals and birds, characterized by random rapid movement of the eyes, accompanied by low muscle tone throughout the body, and the propensity of the sleeper to dream vividly.
Etymology
The term "REM" is an acronym for "Rapid Eye Movement". It was first introduced by Aserinsky and Kleitman in 1953, who discovered this unique phase of sleep during their sleep studies.
Definition
REM sleep is one of the five stages of sleep that recurs cyclically several times during a typical night's sleep. In humans, REM sleep occurs at intervals during the night and it represents 20-25% of an adult's sleep cycle. It is characterized by rapid eye movements, more dreaming and bodily movement, and faster pulse and breathing.
Related Terms
- Non-REM sleep: The period of sleep that alternates with REM sleep. It is characterized by slow brain waves, and it is divided into three stages: N1, N2, and N3.
- Sleep cycle: The pattern of alternating REM and non-REM sleep that occurs during a typical night's sleep.
- Sleep paralysis: A temporary inability to move or speak while falling asleep or upon waking. It can occur when someone is transitioning in or out of REM sleep.
- Lucid dreaming: A type of dream where the dreamer is aware that they are dreaming. These dreams tend to occur during REM sleep.
- Sleep apnea: A serious sleep disorder where breathing repeatedly stops and starts. It can occur during any stage of sleep, but it is particularly problematic during REM sleep.
See Also
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Rem sleep
- Wikipedia's article - Rem sleep
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