Slow-wave sleep

Slow-wave sleep (pronounced: /sloʊ weɪv sliːp/), also known as deep sleep, is a type of sleep that is characterized by slow, high-amplitude brain waves known as delta waves. It is during this phase of sleep that the body undergoes most of its physical recovery and growth.

Etymology

The term "slow-wave sleep" comes from the characteristic slow-wave activity that can be observed in an EEG during this phase of sleep. This activity is characterized by slow, high-amplitude waves, hence the name.

Characteristics

During slow-wave sleep, the body's heart rate and blood pressure decrease, and the body's muscles relax. This phase of sleep is also when the body releases most of its growth hormone, which aids in the repair and growth of tissues.

Slow-wave sleep is also important for memory consolidation, as it is during this phase of sleep that the brain processes and stores new information from the day.

Stages

Slow-wave sleep is typically divided into two stages: Stage 3 and Stage 4. Stage 3 is the beginning of deep sleep, while Stage 4 is the deepest stage of sleep. In Stage 4, the brain produces more delta waves and the person is less responsive to external stimuli.

Related Terms

• Delta waves
• Sleep
• Electroencephalography
• Blood pressure
• Growth hormone
• Memory consolidation

See Also

• Rapid eye movement sleep
• Non-rapid eye movement sleep
• Sleep cycle
• Sleep deprivation
• Sleep disorders

External links

• Medical encyclopedia article on Slow-wave sleep
• Wikipedia's article - Slow-wave sleep

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