Sleep Disorder Blog

45,000 deaths per year linked to lack of insurance

2009-11-06T04:01:00.001-08:00

45,000 deaths per year linked to lack of insurance
Researchers say that number--which equals one person every 12 minutes--equals more deaths annually than deaths caused from murder and drunk driving combined.

Sleeping Easier After Retirement
Title: Sleeping Easier After Retirement
Category: Health News
Created: 11/3/2009 10:37:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 11/3/2009 10:37:35 AM

Insomnia linked to high blood pressure
A new study published in the journal Sleep has found that people who suffer insomnia may also have heightened nighttime blood pressure.

Health Tip: Create Baby's Bedtime Routine
Title: Health Tip: Create Baby's Bedtime Routine
Category: Health News
Created: 11/5/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 11/5/2009

Gene may explain how some function on little sleep
A lucky few can get by just fine on six hours of sleep, and a new study suggests a genetic mutation might help explain why.

Resetting your body clock after a time change
Despite "gaining" an extra hour, experts say the fall time change can still wreck havoc on your body clock.

Health Tip: Putting Baby to Bed
Title: Health Tip: Putting Baby to Bed
Category: Health News
Created: 10/19/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/19/2009

Sleepy Drivers a Menace on the Road
Title: Sleepy Drivers a Menace on the Road
Category: Health News
Created: 11/4/2009 12:10:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 11/5/2009

Penn Researchers Reverse The Cognitive Impairment Caused By Sleep Deprivation

2009-11-05T13:01:00.001-08:00

Penn Researchers Reverse The Cognitive Impairment Caused By Sleep Deprivation
A research collaboration led by biologists and neuroscientists at the University of Pennsylvania has found a molecular pathway in the brain that is the cause of cognitive impairment due to sleep deprivation. Just as important, the team believes that the cognitive deficits caused by sleep deprivation, such as an inability to focus, learn or memorize, may be reversible by reducing the concentration of a specific enzyme that builds up in the hippocampus of the brain.

Shared Bed May Raise SIDS Risk
Title: Shared Bed May Raise SIDS Risk
Category: Health News
Created: 10/14/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/14/2009

Coffee Decreases Quality Of Daytime Recovery Sleep For Night Workers
Night-shift workers should avoid drinking coffee if they wish to improve their sleep, according to research published in the journal Sleep Medicine. A new study led by Julie Carrier, a UniversitÃ© de MontrÃ©al psychology professor and a researcher at the affiliated HÃ´pital du SacrÃ©-Coeur Sleep Disorders Centre, has found the main byproduct of coffee, caffeine, interferes with sleep and this side-effect worsens as people age.

Sleep Deprivation Can Negatively Affect Information Processing
A study in the Nov.1 issue of the journal Sleep shows that sleep deprivation causes some people to shift from a more automatic, implicit process of information categorization (information-integration) to a more controlled, explicit process (rule-based). This use of rule-based strategies in a task in which information-integration strategies are optimal can lead to potentially devastating errors when quick and accurate categorization is fundamental to survival.

World Trade Center Workers Have More Cases of Acid Reflux
Title: World Trade Center Workers Have More Cases of Acid Reflux
Category: Health News
Created: 10/26/2009 2:10:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 10/27/2009

Sleep Disturbances Improve After Retirement
A study in the Nov.1 issue of the journal Sleep shows that retirement is followed by a sharp decrease in the prevalence of sleep disturbances. Findings suggest that this general improvement in sleep is likely to result from the removal of work-related demands and stress rather than from actual health benefits of retirement. Results show that the odds of having disturbed sleep in the seven years after retirement were 26 percent lower (adjusted odds ratio of 0.

Relieving Those Restless Legs

2009-11-04T19:01:00.001-08:00

Relieving Those Restless Legs
Let’s continue talking about restless legs syndrome (RLS). We reviewed some of the symptoms, causes, and adverse effects of restless legs syndrome in the past two blogs, now let’s talk about how RLS is diagnosed. Due to the unusual sensations that patients with RLS complain of, it is sometimes difficult for a healthcare provider to determine if these complaints are actually related to RLS. Contrary to popular...

Penn Researchers Reverse The Cognitive Impairment Caused By Sleep Deprivation
A research collaboration led by biologists and neuroscientists at the University of Pennsylvania has found a molecular pathway in the brain that is the cause of cognitive impairment due to sleep deprivation. Just as important, the team believes that the cognitive deficits caused by sleep deprivation, such as an inability to focus, learn or memorize, may be reversible by reducing the concentration of a specific enzyme that builds up in the hippocampus of the brain.

Teeth Grinding Linked To Sleep Apnea
There is a high prevalence of nocturnal teeth grinding, or bruxism, in patients with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), particularly in Caucasians. New research presented at CHEST 2009, the 75th annual international scientific assembly of the American College of Chest Physicians (ACCP), found that nearly 1 in 4 patients with OSA suffers from nighttime teeth grinding; this seems to be especially more prevalent in men and in Caucasians compared with other ethnic groups.

'No Flu Shots for My Kids'
Title: 'No Flu Shots for My Kids'
Category: Health News
Created: 10/9/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/9/2009

GE Develops Pressure Sensor For Sleep Apnea Devices
Sleep apnea is a common disease that affects millions of people all over the world, and if left undiagnosed and untreated can cause serious health complications. GE Sensing & Inspection Technologies (NYSE: GE) has developed the Nova Pressure Amplified (NPA) series of pressure sensors for medical devices. Small and effective, the NPA is a critical component in creating cost-effective sleep apnea monitors that are more accurate and reliable than those currently on the market.

Melatonin Helps Autistic Kids Sleep
Title: Melatonin Helps Autistic Kids Sleep
Category: Health News
Created: 10/13/2009 11:40:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/13/2009 11:40:05 AM

Race Is Strong Predictor For Restless Legs Syndrome
New research shows that Caucasian women may suffer from restless legs syndrome (RLS), a sleep disorder characterized by the strong urge to move the legs, up to four times more than African-American women. The study, presented at CHEST 2009, the 75th annual international scientific assembly of the American College of Chest Physicians (ACCP), found that, overall, non-African-American (NAA) patients experienced RLS four times more often than African-Americans (AA).

Sleep Deprivation Can Negatively Affect Information Processing

2009-11-04T03:01:00.001-08:00

Sleep Deprivation Can Negatively Affect Information Processing
A study in the Nov.1 issue of the journal Sleep shows that sleep deprivation causes some people to shift from a more automatic, implicit process of information categorization (information-integration) to a more controlled, explicit process (rule-based). This use of rule-based strategies in a task in which information-integration strategies are optimal can lead to potentially devastating errors when quick and accurate categorization is fundamental to survival.

News From Annals Of Internal Medicine, October 6, 2009
Early Releases: 1. Earlier H1N1 Vaccination Prevents More Deaths, Saves Health Care Costs A vaccine for H1N1 influenza is anticipated to become available this fall. With the amount and timing of vaccine release still in question, policy makers struggle to set priorities regarding who should be vaccinated when.

Radiofrequency Energy Technique As Effective As Tonsillectomy Surgery
Radiofrequncy-tonsillotomy, which enables surgeons to reduce the size of the tonsillar tissue instead of removing the tonsils entirely, seems to be an effective and safe method of treating children with symptoms of enlarged tonsils.

The Basics of CPAP
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is the most common treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Except for tracheotomy, it is also the most effective treatment for OSA. CPAP is basically a computerized air pump that delivers pressurized air through a hose and then through a nasal interface into the patient's throat. The pressurized air splints open the upper airways, preventing the airflow pauses (apneas) and airflow...

Sleep Apnea In Obese Patients Unlikely To Be Cured Solely By Improved Diet And Exercise
A study in the Oct. 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found that while a strict diet and exercise program may benefit obese patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), it is unlikely to eliminate the condition. Results show improvement in typical OSA symptoms including snoring, daytime sleepiness, impaired vigilance, poor quality of life and mood after the completion of a 16-week diet and exercise program.

Diagnosing Restless Leg Syndrome

2009-11-03T08:01:00.001-08:00

Diagnosing Restless Leg Syndrome
You’ve all seen the ads. You might have even heard about the charges of “disease mongering” that have been bandied about, specifically about this disorder. We are going to start covering the topic of restless legs syndrome (RLS). (By the way, disease mongering is when someone with a financial interest in a disease, like a pharmaceutical company with an effective medicine, publicizes a disorder with the sole...

Sleep - Too Little? Too Much?
Sleep is one of the necessities of life along with water, food and air. But just how much sleep do we need? What is too much? What is too little, and how does sleep affect our health?A new study, reported in Science News, explains that Alzheimer's is linked to lack of sleep. Plaques of Alzheimer's increase in the brains of mice and also in the spinal fluid of people during wakefulness. These plaques destroy brain cells and lead to...

When Clocks Change, Body May Need Time to Adjust
Title: When Clocks Change, Body May Need Time to Adjust
Category: Health News
Created: 10/30/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/30/2009

Health Tip: Signs of an Asthma Attack in Your Child
Title: Health Tip: Signs of an Asthma Attack in Your Child
Category: Health News
Created: 10/22/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/22/2009

All Sleep is Not Created Equal
In my last blog we were reviewing the fundamental question of why we sleep. We left off trying to sort out the level of activity of the brain and body during different stages of sleep (i.e. Non-REM and REM). During non-REM the body and brain are at their most relaxed state. Ironically, most people think of REM as deep sleep, but actually during REM the level of brain activity resembles the awake state. Our most...

Health Tip: Leave Jet Lag Behind
Title: Health Tip: Leave Jet Lag Behind
Category: Health News
Created: 10/26/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/26/2009

Did Diprivan Lead to Michael Jackson's Death?
It's no surprise to hear that Michael Jackson suffered from insomnia. According to an Associated Press news release, he'd been plague with insomnia as far back as 1989 and the "Bad" tour. Sleep problems are common among celebrities, and, no matter your personal opinion of Michael Jackson, there's no doubt he was a celebrity - a super nova of the music world. Can you imagine the stress and pressure of most of life? Then add to that his...

Shared Bed May Raise SIDS Risk

2009-11-02T17:01:00.001-08:00

Title: Shared Bed May Raise SIDS Risk
Category: Health News
Created: 10/14/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/14/2009 Read more ...

A course of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) may help insomnia patients get a better night's sleep, even long after the treatment ends. Read more ...

Title: Health Tip: Leave Jet Lag Behind
Category: Health News
Created: 10/26/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/26/2009 Read more ...

Title: World Trade Center Workers Have More Cases of Acid Reflux
Category: Health News
Created: 10/26/2009 2:10:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 10/27/2009 Read more ...

Title: Drugs May Save Memory of the Sleep-Deprived
Category: Health News
Created: 10/22/2009 11:00:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/22/2009 11:00:05 AM Read more ...

Title: Health Tip: Signs of an Asthma Attack in Your Child
Category: Health News
Created: 10/22/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/22/2009 Read more ...

Causes and Symptoms of Restless Leg Syndrome

2009-11-02T00:01:00.001-08:00

Causes and Symptoms of Restless Leg Syndrome
We started our discussion about restless legs syndrome (RLS) in my recent blog, so let’s continue where we left off. Mild symptoms of RLS occur in 5-15% of the general population, which makes it the second or third most common sleep disorder. Of these cases, only about 2-3% are considered clinically severe enough to require treatment. It appears to occur more commonly in females and can even affect children. Due...

Relieving Those Restless Legs
Let’s continue talking about restless legs syndrome (RLS). We reviewed some of the symptoms, causes, and adverse effects of restless legs syndrome in the past two blogs, now let’s talk about how RLS is diagnosed. Due to the unusual sensations that patients with RLS complain of, it is sometimes difficult for a healthcare provider to determine if these complaints are actually related to RLS. Contrary to popular...

The Function of Sleep Not Quite Explained
We finished the last blog in mid-thought. We were talking about REM sleep and the idea of brain plasticity- the rewiring of our brains that take place when we learn new information. A recent study in rats showed that 4 days of REM sleep deprivation decreased the amount of new cells in the part of the brain that is associated with long-term memory, in other words they did not make those new circuits. Another study with...

Treating the Winter Blues
In my last blog we began a discussion of seasonal affective disorder or SAD. We will pick up where we left off. There is actually some debate in the psychiatric community whether or not SAD is actually a separate diagnosis, apart from general depression. Those who claim it is not suggest that it is no more than a seasonal coincidence that occurs in someone with recurring episodes of depression. As support to this idea...

Diagnosing Restless Leg Syndrome
You’ve all seen the ads. You might have even heard about the charges of “disease mongering” that have been bandied about, specifically about this disorder. We are going to start covering the topic of restless legs syndrome (RLS). (By the way, disease mongering is when someone with a financial interest in a disease, like a pharmaceutical company with an effective medicine, publicizes a disorder with the sole...

Sleep Deprivation 101: What You Should Know
In my previous blogs I have written about the importance of good sleep, but I don’t think we ever really explained the significance of sleep deprivation and the effects on society and the individual. I thought that it would be a good idea to go over some significant facts and figures to convince you of the importance of getting a good restful sleep and of the need to address sleep problems with your doctor.What is sleep deprivation?It is...

Sleep Apnea In Obese Patients Unlikely To Be Cured Solely By Improved Diet And Exercise

2009-11-01T07:01:00.001-08:00

A study in the Oct. 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found that while a strict diet and exercise program may benefit obese patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), it is unlikely to eliminate the condition. Results show improvement in typical OSA symptoms including snoring, daytime sleepiness, impaired vigilance, poor quality of life and mood after the completion of a 16-week diet and exercise program. Read more ...

A research collaboration led by biologists and neuroscientists at the University of Pennsylvania has found a molecular pathway in the brain that is the cause of cognitive impairment due to sleep deprivation. Just as important, the team believes that the cognitive deficits caused by sleep deprivation, such as an inability to focus, learn or memorize, may be reversible by reducing the concentration of a specific enzyme that builds up in the hippocampus of the brain. Read more ...

Nearly all patients who underwent surgery to treat oropharyngeal cancer experienced some degree of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), according to new research presented at the 2009 American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Foundation (AAO-HNSF) Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO, in San Diego, CA. Read more ...

A study in the Oct.1 issue of the journal Sleep shows that long-term alcoholism affects sleep even after long periods of abstinence, and the pattern of this effect is similar in both men and women. Results indicate that in long-term alcoholics who had not had a drink for up to 719 days, the percentage of slow wave sleep was significantly lower (6.6% in men, 11.1% in women) than in controls (12.0% in men, 12.1% in women). Read more ...

Obesity in children significantly increases the risk of major and minor respiratory complications following surgery to correct sleep disordered breathing (SDB), according to new research presented at the 2009 American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Foundation (AAO-HNSF) Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO, in San Diego, CA. The study, which followed the post-operative recovery of 49 obese children compared with a control group, revealed that 75. Read more ...

NECT (Nifurtimox-Eflornithine Combination Therapy), the first new treatment in 25 years against Human African trypanosomiasis (HAT) or sleeping sickness, is now available. Endemic countries have now begun the process of ordering the new combination treatment and kits through the World Health Organization (WHO). Developed by DNDi and its partners, NECT cuts the cost of treatment by half and significantly reduces the burden on health workers. Read more ...

Despite recent advances in anti-inflammatory therapy, many rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients continue to suffer from pain. Research published in BioMed Central's open access journal, Arthritis Research & Therapy found that inflammation is associated with heightened pain sensitivity at joint sites, whereas increased sleep problems are associated with heightened pain sensitivity at both joint and non-joint sites. Read more ...

Tired Doctors More Prone to Errors

2009-10-31T15:01:00.001-07:00

Tired Doctors More Prone to Errors
Title: Tired Doctors More Prone to Errors
Category: Health News
Created: 10/13/2009 12:10:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 10/14/2009

Naps Are Exercise for the Brain

Coffee for Babies?
Research out of the University of Toronto suggests that babies who are given caffeine have a different sleep pattern and may develop sleep abnormalities. But health problems, especially sleep related, may develop much earlier, well before the baby is born. Pregnancy There has long been conflicting arguments for and against drinking coffee during pregnancy. Drinking coffee was once thought to cause miscarriages. However, a more recent...

When Clocks Change, Body May Need Time to Adjust
Title: When Clocks Change, Body May Need Time to Adjust
Category: Health News
Created: 10/30/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/30/2009

Melatonin Helps Autistic Kids Sleep
Title: Melatonin Helps Autistic Kids Sleep
Category: Health News
Created: 10/13/2009 11:40:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/13/2009 11:40:05 AM

The Sounds and Sleeplessness in the ICU (Part II)

Attention Parents with an Autistic Child: Is a Sleep Clinic in Order?

Health Tip: Signs of an Asthma Attack in Your Child
Title: Health Tip: Signs of an Asthma Attack in Your Child
Category: Health News
Created: 10/22/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/22/2009

Sleep Apnea Episodes May Trigger Irregular Heartbeat

2009-10-30T20:01:00.001-07:00

Sleep Apnea Episodes May Trigger Irregular Heartbeat
Title: Sleep Apnea Episodes May Trigger Irregular Heartbeat
Category: Health News
Created: 10/26/2009 6:10:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 10/27/2009

Coffee for Babies?
Research out of the University of Toronto suggests that babies who are given caffeine have a different sleep pattern and may develop sleep abnormalities. But health problems, especially sleep related, may develop much earlier, well before the baby is born. Pregnancy There has long been conflicting arguments for and against drinking coffee during pregnancy. Drinking coffee was once thought to cause miscarriages. However, a more recent...

desipramine, Norpramin
Title: desipramine, Norpramin
Category: Medications
Created: 5/11/1998
Last Editorial Review: 10/8/2009

World Trade Center Workers Have More Cases of Acid Reflux
Title: World Trade Center Workers Have More Cases of Acid Reflux
Category: Health News
Created: 10/26/2009 2:10:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 10/27/2009

Health Tip: Signs of an Asthma Attack in Your Child
Title: Health Tip: Signs of an Asthma Attack in Your Child
Category: Health News
Created: 10/22/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/22/2009

Melatonin Helps Autistic Kids Sleep
Title: Melatonin Helps Autistic Kids Sleep
Category: Health News
Created: 10/13/2009 11:40:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/13/2009 11:40:05 AM

Possible Detrimental Effect Of Giving Caffein To Premature Babies

2009-10-30T04:01:00.001-07:00

Possible Detrimental Effect Of Giving Caffein To Premature Babies
An F1000 evaluation looks at a Canadian study on how giving caffeine to newborn rats has a long-lasting and detrimental effect on sleep and breathing in adulthood Breathing problems are the leading causes of hospitalisation and death in premature babies. These babies are therefore often given caffeine because of its qualities as a respiratory stimulant. Until recently, the long-term effects of this treatment in humans have not been examined.

45,000 deaths per year linked to lack of insurance
Researchers say that number--which equals one person every 12 minutes--equals more deaths annually than deaths caused from murder and drunk driving combined.

Cognitive behavior therapy may ease insomnia
A course of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) may help insomnia patients get a better night's sleep, even long after the treatment ends.

Insomnia linked to high blood pressure
A new study published in the journal Sleep has found that people who suffer insomnia may also have heightened nighttime blood pressure.

Sleep Apnea In Obese Patients Unlikely To Be Cured Solely By Improved Diet And Exercise
A study in the Oct. 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found that while a strict diet and exercise program may benefit obese patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), it is unlikely to eliminate the condition. Results show improvement in typical OSA symptoms including snoring, daytime sleepiness, impaired vigilance, poor quality of life and mood after the completion of a 16-week diet and exercise program.

Making the most of expiring health insurance

2009-10-29T12:01:00.001-07:00

Making the most of expiring health insurance
A health reporter talks about how you can prioritize the use of your employer's insurance if you believe you're in danger of losing it.

Common Surgical Procedure Effective Treatment For Sleep Apnea For Some Patients
According to research recently published by an Oregon Health & Science University scientist, a form of surgery called uvopalatopharyngoplasty is effective for treating certain patients who suffer from sleep apnea, one of the most common sleep disorders. The research, conducted in collaboration with scientists at the Mayo Clinic, is published in the September issue of the Mayo Clinic Proceedings.

Patients With Allergic Rhinitis And Obstructive Sleep Apnea Plagued By Stress, Fatigue
Patients who suffer from both allergic rhinitis and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) may experience escalated symptoms of stress and fatigue. In a paper presented at the 2009 American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery Foundation (AAO-HNSF) Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO in San Diego, researchers studied 34 people who were diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea. Among them, 12 people were classified in the allergic rhinitis group and 22 people in the control group.

Sleep Linked to Infertility

Pilot Fatigue to Blame?

Sleep Paralysis Gets Screentime – But Not as a Horror Flick

Sleeplessness Worse for Women

2009-10-28T19:01:00.001-07:00

Sleeplessness Worse for Women

Moms: A New School Year Can Spell Sleep Relief (or Not)

Sleep Linked to Infertility

World Trade Center Workers Have More Cases of Acid Reflux
Title: World Trade Center Workers Have More Cases of Acid Reflux
Category: Health News
Created: 10/26/2009 2:10:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 10/27/2009

Big Decisions After All-Nighters?

Health Tip: Leave Jet Lag Behind

2009-10-28T01:01:00.001-07:00

Title: Health Tip: Leave Jet Lag Behind
Category: Health News
Created: 10/26/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/26/2009 Complete news at...

Title: As Teens Plug In, Parents Fret
Category: Health News
Created: 10/8/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/8/2009 Complete news at...

Title: Shared Bed May Raise SIDS Risk
Category: Health News
Created: 10/14/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/14/2009 Complete news at...

It's no surprise to hear that Michael Jackson suffered from insomnia. According to an Associated Press news release, he'd been plague with insomnia as far back as 1989 and the "Bad" tour. Sleep problems are common among celebrities, and, no matter your personal opinion of Michael Jackson, there's no doubt he was a celebrity - a super nova of the music world. Can you imagine the stress and pressure of most of life? Then add to that his... Complete news at...

Title: Health Tip: Putting Baby to Bed
Category: Health News
Created: 10/19/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/19/2009 Complete news at...

"Gene" is a word used often in today's world - gene pool, gene therapy. genetics. But what, exactly is a gene? The U.S. National Library of Medicine has an excellent definition : "A gene is the basic physical and functional unit of heredity. Genes, which are made up of DNA, act as instructions to make molecules called proteins. In humans, genes vary in size from a few hundred DNA bases to more than 2 million bases. The Human Genome... Complete news at...

Title: 'No Flu Shots for My Kids'
Category: Health News
Created: 10/9/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/9/2009 Complete news at...

Title: Sleep Apnea Episodes May Trigger Irregular Heartbeat
Category: Health News
Created: 10/26/2009 6:10:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 10/27/2009 Complete news at...

Shared Bed May Raise SIDS Risk

2009-10-27T07:01:00.001-07:00

Title: Shared Bed May Raise SIDS Risk
Category: Health News
Created: 10/14/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/14/2009 More at...

Title: Melatonin Helps Autistic Kids Sleep
Category: Health News
Created: 10/13/2009 11:40:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/13/2009 11:40:05 AM More at...

Title: Snoring Surgery Offers Lasting Relief
Category: Health News
Created: 10/6/2009 10:19:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/6/2009 10:19:44 AM More at...

Natural remedies such as St. John's wort and fish oil can cause harm if taken in the wrong doses or in conjunction with other drugs, experts say. More at...

Title: Drugs May Save Memory of the Sleep-Deprived
Category: Health News
Created: 10/22/2009 11:00:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/22/2009 11:00:05 AM More at...

Title: 'No Flu Shots for My Kids'
Category: Health News
Created: 10/9/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/9/2009 More at...

Title: Health Tip: Putting Baby to Bed
Category: Health News
Created: 10/19/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/19/2009 More at...

Mattress Money Stasher Throws Out a Million!

2009-10-26T13:01:00.001-07:00

Mattress Money Stasher Throws Out a Million!

Sleepless in the White House

Sleep on the Government's Agenda

Sleep Apnea Tips
Most people know that sleep apnea is a leading cause of death from heart attacks and strokes. However recent research has revealed that sleep apnea is a leading cause of death from many causes, even in people judged to be healthy. Researchers at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore revealed that men aged 40 to 70 with severe sleep apnea were twice as likely to die as men in the same age group who did not suffer from the disorder....

Off to College - Probably Not Off to Sleep: Part I

Is Your Sleep Deprivation Leading You to Diabetes?

Long-Held Theory About Biological Clocks Overturned By U-M Discovery

2009-10-25T22:01:00.001-07:00

Long-Held Theory About Biological Clocks Overturned By U-M Discovery
University of Michigan mathematicians and their British colleagues say they have identified the signal that the brain sends to the rest of the body to control biological rhythms, a finding that overturns a long-held theory about our internal clock. Understanding how the human biological clock works is an essential step toward correcting sleep problems like insomnia and jet lag.

All Sleep is Not Created Equal
In my last blog we were reviewing the fundamental question of why we sleep. We left off trying to sort out the level of activity of the brain and body during different stages of sleep (i.e. Non-REM and REM). During non-REM the body and brain are at their most relaxed state. Ironically, most people think of REM as deep sleep, but actually during REM the level of brain activity resembles the awake state. Our most...

Causes and Symptoms of Restless Leg Syndrome
We started our discussion about restless legs syndrome (RLS) in my recent blog, so let’s continue where we left off. Mild symptoms of RLS occur in 5-15% of the general population, which makes it the second or third most common sleep disorder. Of these cases, only about 2-3% are considered clinically severe enough to require treatment. It appears to occur more commonly in females and can even affect children. Due...

Bugs, Bugs, Bugs
It's annoying for anyone to have a buzzing mosquito flying around the room. They land for an instant, never long enough to swat them, but just enough to arouse, then off they go again for another circle of the room. This is not only irritating to a child but can be downright frightening. To help keep mosquitoes and other flying insects out of the house, make sure doors are closed quickly. Don't stand and chat with a neighbor with the...

Cephalon Announces That FDA Grants Priority Review Of Its Supplemental New Drug Application For NUVIGIL As A Treatment For Excessive Sleepiness
Cephalon, Inc. (Nasdaq: CEPH) announced the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted a priority review for its supplemental New Drug Application (sNDA) for NUVIGIL(R) (armodafinil) Tablets [C-IV], which was filed in June of this year. The FDA decision on approval of NUVIGIL as a treatment for improving wakefulness in patients with excessive sleepiness associated with jet lag disorder due to eastbound travel is expected by December 29, 2009.

Behavior and Childhood Sleep Disorders
A recent news article states: "Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is associated with behavior problems in children with asthma, researchers have found." But behavior problems are often linked to any type of sleep disordered breathing. It was discovered that approximately a third of children with asthma also had sleep disordered breathing resulting from some form of sleep disorders. Those children had significantly worse behavior...

Coffee for Babies?
Research out of the University of Toronto suggests that babies who are given caffeine have a different sleep pattern and may develop sleep abnormalities. But health problems, especially sleep related, may develop much earlier, well before the baby is born. Pregnancy There has long been conflicting arguments for and against drinking coffee during pregnancy. Drinking coffee was once thought to cause miscarriages. However, a more recent...

Light At Night Linked To Symptoms Of Depression In Mice
Too much light at night can lead to symptoms of depression, according to a new study in mice. Researchers found that mice housed in a lighted room 24 hours a day exhibited more depressive symptoms than did similar mice that had a normal light-dark cycle.

House panel approves healthcare reform bill

2009-10-25T00:01:00.001-07:00

The House Energy and Commerce Committee has approved a sweeping bill designed to overhaul the U.S. healthcare system, clearing the way for a vote by the full House in the fall. More at...

Natural remedies such as St. John's wort and fish oil can cause harm if taken in the wrong doses or in conjunction with other drugs, experts say. More at...

Most people know that sleep apnea is a leading cause of death from heart attacks and strokes. However recent research has revealed that sleep apnea is a leading cause of death from many causes, even in people judged to be healthy. Researchers at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore revealed that men aged 40 to 70 with severe sleep apnea were twice as likely to die as men in the same age group who did not suffer from the disorder.... More at...

With the hectic lifestyles most of us lead these days, napping has become almost a way of life. Think naps are for sissies? Listen. Even the sports teams are getting into it. "A lot of things may change in the NHL," Scott Mellanby of the Atlanta Thrashers says, "but not naps. It's just a part of being a hockey player." One complaint from participants in the Olympics is sleep deprivation. With jet lag and getting used to... More at...

Despite the fact that humans will spend roughly one-third of their lives asleep, scientists still don't know why we do it. More at...

A health reporter talks about how you can prioritize the use of your employer's insurance if you believe you're in danger of losing it. More at...

Cognitive behavior therapy may ease insomnia

2009-10-24T07:01:00.001-07:00

A course of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) may help insomnia patients get a better night's sleep, even long after the treatment ends. Read more ...

We started our discussion about restless legs syndrome (RLS) in my recent blog, so let’s continue where we left off. Mild symptoms of RLS occur in 5-15% of the general population, which makes it the second or third most common sleep disorder. Of these cases, only about 2-3% are considered clinically severe enough to require treatment. It appears to occur more commonly in females and can even affect children. Due... Read more ...

A lucky few can get by just fine on six hours of sleep, and a new study suggests a genetic mutation might help explain why. Read more ...

A health reporter talks about how you can prioritize the use of your employer's insurance if you believe you're in danger of losing it. Read more ...

There is enormous diversity when it comes to sleep disorders, experts say. Read more ...

Let’s continue talking about restless legs syndrome (RLS). We reviewed some of the symptoms, causes, and adverse effects of restless legs syndrome in the past two blogs, now let’s talk about how RLS is diagnosed. Due to the unusual sensations that patients with RLS complain of, it is sometimes difficult for a healthcare provider to determine if these complaints are actually related to RLS. Contrary to popular... Read more ...

The Holy Grail of Biological Questions: Why Do We Sleep?

2009-10-23T11:01:00.001-07:00

The Holy Grail of Biological Questions: Why Do We Sleep?
In this blog, I am going to deal with a question that has stumped some of the most talented researchers in the world. That should hopefully get your attention- this vexing question seems simple, but represents the “holy grail” of biology. The question: why do we sleep? Consider this- we spend approximately one-third of lives doing it and scientists are still not quit sure why. (Much of this and future blogs on...

S.A.D. and Circadian Rhythms
“If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant: if we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome.” - Anne Bradstreet, British poet It’s that time of the year again. Especially for those of us not fortunate enough to live in warmer climes- the winter is coming. As we all know, along with the season comes shorter days and longer nights. Some of us may...

Bugs, Bugs, Bugs
It's annoying for anyone to have a buzzing mosquito flying around the room. They land for an instant, never long enough to swat them, but just enough to arouse, then off they go again for another circle of the room. This is not only irritating to a child but can be downright frightening. To help keep mosquitoes and other flying insects out of the house, make sure doors are closed quickly. Don't stand and chat with a neighbor with the...

The Function of Sleep Not Quite Explained
We finished the last blog in mid-thought. We were talking about REM sleep and the idea of brain plasticity- the rewiring of our brains that take place when we learn new information. A recent study in rats showed that 4 days of REM sleep deprivation decreased the amount of new cells in the part of the brain that is associated with long-term memory, in other words they did not make those new circuits. Another study with...

Relieving Those Restless Legs
Let’s continue talking about restless legs syndrome (RLS). We reviewed some of the symptoms, causes, and adverse effects of restless legs syndrome in the past two blogs, now let’s talk about how RLS is diagnosed. Due to the unusual sensations that patients with RLS complain of, it is sometimes difficult for a healthcare provider to determine if these complaints are actually related to RLS. Contrary to popular...

Treating the Winter Blues
In my last blog we began a discussion of seasonal affective disorder or SAD. We will pick up where we left off. There is actually some debate in the psychiatric community whether or not SAD is actually a separate diagnosis, apart from general depression. Those who claim it is not suggest that it is no more than a seasonal coincidence that occurs in someone with recurring episodes of depression. As support to this idea...

Lack of Exercise = Lack of Sleep
Tommy sprawls on the couch, his eyes glued to the TV screen and the latest Spiderman movie. Shelly is curled up in the easy chair, her only movement her fingers on the controls of her Game Boy. It's a perfect summer day filled with golden sunshine and light breezes. Tommy should be outside playing baseball. On the sidewalk across the street, Shelly's friends are engaged in a game of hopscotch. But hey! Both the kids are quiet and...

Memory, Brain Function, and REM Sleep: Are They Related?
In my last blog we discussed at length the different stages of sleep, namely non-REM and REM, the biological need for sleep to stay alive, and started discussing what some researchers believe may be the function of some portions of non-REM sleep. We reviewed how there is some evidence linking declarative memory (memory of facts and figures) to slow wave sleep and procedural memory (the ability to perform tasks like riding a bike or playing...

ImThera Medical To Begin European Clinical Trials In Belgium

2009-10-22T17:01:00.001-07:00

ImThera Medical, Inc. has received Ethics Committee clearance to begin human clinical trials in Belgium. The trials will include ImThera's Targeted Hypoglossal Neurostimulation (THN) Sleep Therapy to treat Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). Along with the clinical trial approvals, ImThera has received ISO 13485 certification of its quality system as a pre-requisite for the future CE mark application for European commercialization of medical products. Complete news at...

Title: Melatonin Helps Autistic Kids Sleep
Category: Health News
Created: 10/13/2009 11:40:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/13/2009 11:40:05 AM Complete news at...

There is enormous diversity when it comes to sleep disorders, experts say. Complete news at...

The sperm of male fruit flies are coated with a chemical 'sex peptide' which inhibits the female's usual afternoon siesta and compels her into an intense period of foraging activity. The surprise discovery was made by Professor Elwyn Isaac from the University of Leeds' Faculty of Biological Sciences when investigating the marked differences in sleeping patterns between virgin and mated females. Complete news at...

Patients who suffer from both allergic rhinitis and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) may experience escalated symptoms of stress and fatigue. In a paper presented at the 2009 American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery Foundation (AAO-HNSF) Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO in San Diego, researchers studied 34 people who were diagnosed with obstructive sleep apnea. Among them, 12 people were classified in the allergic rhinitis group and 22 people in the control group. Complete news at...

A study published in Science has found that levels of amyloid beta, a protein fragment associated with Alzheimers disease, rose and fell in association with sleep and wakefulness in mice. 'It is interesting that there may be a link between sleep and the build up of the protein associated with the development of Alzheimer's disease. Complete news at...

A study in the Oct. 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine found that while a strict diet and exercise program may benefit obese patients with mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), it is unlikely to eliminate the condition. Results show improvement in typical OSA symptoms including snoring, daytime sleepiness, impaired vigilance, poor quality of life and mood after the completion of a 16-week diet and exercise program. Complete news at...

Title: Snoring Surgery Offers Lasting Relief
Category: Health News
Created: 10/6/2009 10:19:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/6/2009 10:19:44 AM Complete news at...

Gene may explain how some function on little sleep

2009-10-22T00:01:00.001-07:00

Gene may explain how some function on little sleep
A lucky few can get by just fine on six hours of sleep, and a new study suggests a genetic mutation might help explain why.

House panel approves healthcare reform bill
The House Energy and Commerce Committee has approved a sweeping bill designed to overhaul the U.S. healthcare system, clearing the way for a vote by the full House in the fall.

Vitamins and herbs that can harm you
Natural remedies such as St. John's wort and fish oil can cause harm if taken in the wrong doses or in conjunction with other drugs, experts say.

Lack of sleep may play a role in Alzheimer's
Experts say this study is another in the long line of consequences from chronic sleep deprivation.

The Holy Grail of Biological Questions: Why Do We Sleep?
In this blog, I am going to deal with a question that has stumped some of the most talented researchers in the world. That should hopefully get your attention- this vexing question seems simple, but represents the “holy grail” of biology. The question: why do we sleep? Consider this- we spend approximately one-third of lives doing it and scientists are still not quit sure why. (Much of this and future blogs on...

Relieving Those Restless Legs
Let’s continue talking about restless legs syndrome (RLS). We reviewed some of the symptoms, causes, and adverse effects of restless legs syndrome in the past two blogs, now let’s talk about how RLS is diagnosed. Due to the unusual sensations that patients with RLS complain of, it is sometimes difficult for a healthcare provider to determine if these complaints are actually related to RLS. Contrary to popular...

Altitude Sickness Symptoms

2009-10-21T08:01:00.001-07:00

Title: Altitude Sickness Symptoms
Category: Doctor's Views
Created: 12/15/2005
Last Editorial Review: 10/1/2009 Complete news at...

You’ve all seen the ads. You might have even heard about the charges of “disease mongering” that have been bandied about, specifically about this disorder. We are going to start covering the topic of restless legs syndrome (RLS). (By the way, disease mongering is when someone with a financial interest in a disease, like a pharmaceutical company with an effective medicine, publicizes a disorder with the sole... Complete news at...

Title: desipramine, Norpramin
Category: Medications
Created: 5/11/1998
Last Editorial Review: 10/8/2009 Complete news at...

In my last blog we began a discussion of seasonal affective disorder or SAD. We will pick up where we left off. There is actually some debate in the psychiatric community whether or not SAD is actually a separate diagnosis, apart from general depression. Those who claim it is not suggest that it is no more than a seasonal coincidence that occurs in someone with recurring episodes of depression. As support to this idea... Complete news at...

Title: Infants: Child Development
Category: Health and Living
Created: 10/2/2009 4:33:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 10/2/2009 4:33:58 PM Complete news at...

Title: Alcoholism May Alter Sleep Long-Term
Category: Health News
Created: 10/5/2009 11:06:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/5/2009 11:06:10 AM Complete news at...

Adolescents Are Losing Sleep Over "It"

2009-10-20T13:01:00.001-07:00

Complete news at...

Complete news at...

Complete news at...

Let’s continue talking about restless legs syndrome (RLS). We reviewed some of the symptoms, causes, and adverse effects of restless legs syndrome in the past two blogs, now let’s talk about how RLS is diagnosed. Due to the unusual sensations that patients with RLS complain of, it is sometimes difficult for a healthcare provider to determine if these complaints are actually related to RLS. Contrary to popular... Complete news at...

Most people know that sleep apnea is a leading cause of death from heart attacks and strokes. However recent research has revealed that sleep apnea is a leading cause of death from many causes, even in people judged to be healthy. Researchers at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore revealed that men aged 40 to 70 with severe sleep apnea were twice as likely to die as men in the same age group who did not suffer from the disorder.... Complete news at...

Complete news at...

Research out of the University of Toronto suggests that babies who are given caffeine have a different sleep pattern and may develop sleep abnormalities. But health problems, especially sleep related, may develop much earlier, well before the baby is born. Pregnancy There has long been conflicting arguments for and against drinking coffee during pregnancy. Drinking coffee was once thought to cause miscarriages. However, a more recent... Complete news at...

Complete news at...

Attention Parents with an Autistic Child: Is a Sleep Clinic in Order?

2009-10-19T19:01:00.001-07:00

Read more ...

With the hectic lifestyles most of us lead these days, napping has become almost a way of life. Think naps are for sissies? Listen. Even the sports teams are getting into it. "A lot of things may change in the NHL," Scott Mellanby of the Atlanta Thrashers says, "but not naps. It's just a part of being a hockey player." One complaint from participants in the Olympics is sleep deprivation. With jet lag and getting used to... Read more ...

A recent news article states: "Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is associated with behavior problems in children with asthma, researchers have found." But behavior problems are often linked to any type of sleep disordered breathing. It was discovered that approximately a third of children with asthma also had sleep disordered breathing resulting from some form of sleep disorders. Those children had significantly worse behavior... Read more ...

Read more ...

Research out of the University of Toronto suggests that babies who are given caffeine have a different sleep pattern and may develop sleep abnormalities. But health problems, especially sleep related, may develop much earlier, well before the baby is born. Pregnancy There has long been conflicting arguments for and against drinking coffee during pregnancy. Drinking coffee was once thought to cause miscarriages. However, a more recent... Read more ...

Read more ...

Read more ...

Melatonin Helps Autistic Kids Sleep

2009-10-19T04:01:00.001-07:00

Title: Melatonin Helps Autistic Kids Sleep
Category: Health News
Created: 10/13/2009 11:40:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/13/2009 11:40:05 AM Complete news at...

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is an effective treatment for most cases of primary insomnia, and for selected cases of secondary insomnia. There are a variety of behavioral and psychological treatments that comprise CBT-I, including stimulus control therapy, relaxation training, biofeedback, paradoxical intention, sleep restriction therapy, sleep hygiene education, and cognitive therapy. Usually several of these treatments are... Complete news at...

Title: Snoring Surgery Offers Lasting Relief
Category: Health News
Created: 10/6/2009 10:19:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/6/2009 10:19:44 AM Complete news at...

Title: Altitude Sickness Symptoms
Category: Doctor's Views
Created: 12/15/2005
Last Editorial Review: 10/1/2009 Complete news at...

Title: Health Tip: Help Prevent Childhood Migraines
Category: Health News
Created: 10/2/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/2/2009 Complete news at...

Fido or Tabby Got Your Sleep?

2009-10-17T17:01:00.001-07:00

Complete news at...

Title: desipramine, Norpramin
Category: Medications
Created: 5/11/1998
Last Editorial Review: 10/8/2009 Complete news at...

Complete news at...

Title: 'No Flu Shots for My Kids'
Category: Health News
Created: 10/9/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/9/2009 Complete news at...

Title: Alcoholism May Alter Sleep Long-Term
Category: Health News
Created: 10/5/2009 11:06:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/5/2009 11:06:10 AM Complete news at...

Complete news at...

4 things you should know about the healthcare reform bill

2009-10-16T21:01:00.001-07:00

Dr. Bernadine Healy gives four things that you and your representatives in Washington should know about the healthcare reform bill known as H.R. 3200. Read more ...

A course of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) may help insomnia patients get a better night's sleep, even long after the treatment ends. Read more ...

The House Energy and Commerce Committee has approved a sweeping bill designed to overhaul the U.S. healthcare system, clearing the way for a vote by the full House in the fall. Read more ...

A new software that uses quizzes, stories, and games may help people who suffer from insomnia, experts say. Read more ...

Five Democrats voted with all of the panel's Republicans in opposing the inclusion of the government-run option in the bill in what is expected to be the first of several battles in Congress over the public option. Read more ...

Despite the fact that humans will spend roughly one-third of their lives asleep, scientists still don't know why we do it. Read more ...

Melatonin Helps Autistic Kids Sleep

2009-10-16T04:01:00.001-07:00

Melatonin Helps Autistic Kids Sleep
Title: Melatonin Helps Autistic Kids Sleep
Category: Health News
Created: 10/13/2009 11:40:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/13/2009 11:40:05 AM

Lack of sleep may play a role in Alzheimer's
Experts say this study is another in the long line of consequences from chronic sleep deprivation.

Developmental Screening
Title: Developmental Screening
Category: Procedures and Tests
Created: 9/29/2009 12:33:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 9/29/2009 12:33:34 PM

Weight Loss Helps Sleep Apnea
Title: Weight Loss Helps Sleep Apnea
Category: Health News
Created: 9/29/2009 9:16:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 9/29/2009 9:16:51 AM

S.A.D. and Circadian Rhythms
“If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant: if we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome.” - Anne Bradstreet, British poet It’s that time of the year again. Especially for those of us not fortunate enough to live in warmer climes- the winter is coming. As we all know, along with the season comes shorter days and longer nights. Some of us may...

Insomnia linked to high blood pressure
A new study published in the journal Sleep has found that people who suffer insomnia may also have heightened nighttime blood pressure.

Internet-based therapy may treat insomnia
A new software that uses quizzes, stories, and games may help people who suffer from insomnia, experts say.

Memory, Brain Function, and REM Sleep: Are They Related?

2009-10-15T09:01:00.001-07:00

Memory, Brain Function, and REM Sleep: Are They Related?
In my last blog we discussed at length the different stages of sleep, namely non-REM and REM, the biological need for sleep to stay alive, and started discussing what some researchers believe may be the function of some portions of non-REM sleep. We reviewed how there is some evidence linking declarative memory (memory of facts and figures) to slow wave sleep and procedural memory (the ability to perform tasks like riding a bike or playing...

Infants: Child Development
Title: Infants: Child Development
Category: Health and Living
Created: 10/2/2009 4:33:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 10/2/2009 4:33:58 PM

Treating the Winter Blues
In my last blog we began a discussion of seasonal affective disorder or SAD. We will pick up where we left off. There is actually some debate in the psychiatric community whether or not SAD is actually a separate diagnosis, apart from general depression. Those who claim it is not suggest that it is no more than a seasonal coincidence that occurs in someone with recurring episodes of depression. As support to this idea...

As Teens Plug In, Parents Fret
Title: As Teens Plug In, Parents Fret
Category: Health News
Created: 10/8/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/8/2009

Weight Loss Helps Sleep Apnea
Title: Weight Loss Helps Sleep Apnea
Category: Health News
Created: 9/29/2009 9:16:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 9/29/2009 9:16:51 AM

'No Flu Shots for My Kids'
Title: 'No Flu Shots for My Kids'
Category: Health News
Created: 10/9/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/9/2009

desipramine, Norpramin
Title: desipramine, Norpramin
Category: Medications
Created: 5/11/1998
Last Editorial Review: 10/8/2009

Gene may explain how some function on little sleep

2009-10-14T17:01:00.001-07:00

Gene may explain how some function on little sleep
A lucky few can get by just fine on six hours of sleep, and a new study suggests a genetic mutation might help explain why.

Cognitive behavior therapy may ease insomnia
A course of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) may help insomnia patients get a better night's sleep, even long after the treatment ends.

Making the most of expiring health insurance
A health reporter talks about how you can prioritize the use of your employer's insurance if you believe you're in danger of losing it.

Sleep Apnea Tips
Most people know that sleep apnea is a leading cause of death from heart attacks and strokes. However recent research has revealed that sleep apnea is a leading cause of death from many causes, even in people judged to be healthy. Researchers at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore revealed that men aged 40 to 70 with severe sleep apnea were twice as likely to die as men in the same age group who did not suffer from the disorder....

desipramine, Norpramin
Title: desipramine, Norpramin
Category: Medications
Created: 5/11/1998
Last Editorial Review: 10/8/2009

Alcoholism May Alter Sleep Long-Term
Title: Alcoholism May Alter Sleep Long-Term
Category: Health News
Created: 10/5/2009 11:06:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/5/2009 11:06:10 AM

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Title: Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Category: Diseases and Conditions
Created: 2/8/2000 4:14:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 9/30/2009

The Secret to a Happy Marriage (and Healthy Self): Separate Beds? I Doubt it!

2009-10-14T01:01:00.001-07:00

The Secret to a Happy Marriage (and Healthy Self): Separate Beds? I Doubt it!

Sleep on the Government's Agenda

'No Flu Shots for My Kids'
Title: 'No Flu Shots for My Kids'
Category: Health News
Created: 10/9/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/9/2009

Big Decisions After All-Nighters?

Do You Recognize Me?

Fido or Tabby Got Your Sleep?

Beware of Late-Night Eating

Infants: Child Development
Title: Infants: Child Development
Category: Health and Living
Created: 10/2/2009 4:33:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 10/2/2009 4:33:58 PM

Cognitive behavior therapy may ease insomnia

2009-10-13T08:01:00.001-07:00

A course of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) may help insomnia patients get a better night's sleep, even long after the treatment ends. Read more ...

Researchers say that number--which equals one person every 12 minutes--equals more deaths annually than deaths caused from murder and drunk driving combined. Read more ...

Overweight individuals are not just at greater risk of having sleep-disordered-breathing (SDB), they are also likely to suffer greater consequences, according to new research. Read more ...

While the occasional all-nighter to cram for exams or finish a grant proposal may seem like no big deal, losing sleep night after night could take its toll on brain health in later life, two new studies suggest. Based on microdialysis experiments in live mice, Dave Holtzman, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri, and colleagues report in the current issue of Science that extracellular amyloid-beta levels in the brain fall during slumber and rise with wakefulness. Read more ...

A study in the Oct.1 issue of the journal Sleep shows that elderly women sleep better than elderly men even though women consistently report that their sleep is shorter and poorer. Women reported less and poorer sleep than men on all of the subjective measures, including a 13.2 minute shorter total sleep time (TST), 10.1 minute longer sleep onset latency (SOL), and a 4.2 percent lower sleep efficiency. Read more ...

Lack of Exercise = Lack of Sleep

2009-10-12T11:01:00.001-07:00

Tommy sprawls on the couch, his eyes glued to the TV screen and the latest Spiderman movie. Shelly is curled up in the easy chair, her only movement her fingers on the controls of her Game Boy. It's a perfect summer day filled with golden sunshine and light breezes. Tommy should be outside playing baseball. On the sidewalk across the street, Shelly's friends are engaged in a game of hopscotch. But hey! Both the kids are quiet and... Continue reading ...

With the hectic lifestyles most of us lead these days, napping has become almost a way of life. Think naps are for sissies? Listen. Even the sports teams are getting into it. "A lot of things may change in the NHL," Scott Mellanby of the Atlanta Thrashers says, "but not naps. It's just a part of being a hockey player." One complaint from participants in the Olympics is sleep deprivation. With jet lag and getting used to... Continue reading ...

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is the most common treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Except for tracheotomy, it is also the most effective treatment for OSA. CPAP is basically a computerized air pump that delivers pressurized air through a hose and then through a nasal interface into the patient's throat. The pressurized air splints open the upper airways, preventing the airflow pauses (apneas) and airflow... Continue reading ...

A study in the Oct.1 issue of the journal Sleep shows that long-term alcoholism affects sleep even after long periods of abstinence, and the pattern of this effect is similar in both men and women. Results indicate that in long-term alcoholics who had not had a drink for up to 719 days, the percentage of slow wave sleep was significantly lower (6.6% in men, 11.1% in women) than in controls (12.0% in men, 12.1% in women). Continue reading ...

Sleep is one of the necessities of life along with water, food and air. But just how much sleep do we need? What is too much? What is too little, and how does sleep affect our health?A new study, reported in Science News, explains that Alzheimer's is linked to lack of sleep. Plaques of Alzheimer's increase in the brains of mice and also in the spinal fluid of people during wakefulness. These plaques destroy brain cells and lead to... Continue reading ...

Sleep Deprivation And Dementia

2009-10-11T18:01:00.001-07:00

A study published in Science has found that levels of amyloid beta, a protein fragment associated with Alzheimers disease, rose and fell in association with sleep and wakefulness in mice. 'It is interesting that there may be a link between sleep and the build up of the protein associated with the development of Alzheimer's disease. Read more ...

Cephalon, Inc. (Nasdaq: CEPH) announced the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has granted a priority review for its supplemental New Drug Application (sNDA) for NUVIGIL(R) (armodafinil) Tablets [C-IV], which was filed in June of this year. The FDA decision on approval of NUVIGIL as a treatment for improving wakefulness in patients with excessive sleepiness associated with jet lag disorder due to eastbound travel is expected by December 29, 2009. Read more ...

ImThera Medical, Inc. announced that it has completed development of its Targeted Hypoglossal Neurostimulation (THN) system for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). More than 800,000 patients in the US are annually diagnosed with OSA. While Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) remains as the established therapy, studies show that up to 50% of patients do not comply with CPAP. Read more ...

ImThera Medical, Inc. has received Ethics Committee clearance to begin human clinical trials in Belgium. The trials will include ImThera's Targeted Hypoglossal Neurostimulation (THN) Sleep Therapy to treat Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). Along with the clinical trial approvals, ImThera has received ISO 13485 certification of its quality system as a pre-requisite for the future CE mark application for European commercialization of medical products. Read more ...

Obesity in children significantly increases the risk of major and minor respiratory complications following surgery to correct sleep disordered breathing (SDB), according to new research presented at the 2009 American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery Foundation (AAO-HNSF) Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO, in San Diego, CA. The study, which followed the post-operative recovery of 49 obese children compared with a control group, revealed that 75. Read more ...

Early Releases: 1. Earlier H1N1 Vaccination Prevents More Deaths, Saves Health Care Costs A vaccine for H1N1 influenza is anticipated to become available this fall. With the amount and timing of vaccine release still in question, policy makers struggle to set priorities regarding who should be vaccinated when. Read more ...

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is the most common treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Except for tracheotomy, it is also the most effective treatment for OSA. CPAP is basically a computerized air pump that delivers pressurized air through a hose and then through a nasal interface into the patient's throat. The pressurized air splints open the upper airways, preventing the airflow pauses (apneas) and airflow... Read more ...

Increase In Alzheimer's Plaques And Sleep Loss Linked

2009-10-11T01:01:00.001-07:00

Chronic sleep deprivation in a mouse model of Alzheimer's disease makes Alzheimer's brain plaques appear earlier and more often, researchers at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis report online this week in Science Express. They also found that orexin, a protein that helps regulate the sleep cycle, appears to be directly involved in the increase. Neurodegenerative disorders like Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease often disrupt sleep. Continue reading ...

Continue reading ...

According to research recently published by an Oregon Health & Science University scientist, a form of surgery called uvopalatopharyngoplasty is effective for treating certain patients who suffer from sleep apnea, one of the most common sleep disorders. The research, conducted in collaboration with scientists at the Mayo Clinic, is published in the September issue of the Mayo Clinic Proceedings. Continue reading ...

An F1000 evaluation looks at a Canadian study on how giving caffeine to newborn rats has a long-lasting and detrimental effect on sleep and breathing in adulthood Breathing problems are the leading causes of hospitalisation and death in premature babies. These babies are therefore often given caffeine because of its qualities as a respiratory stimulant. Until recently, the long-term effects of this treatment in humans have not been examined. Continue reading ...

Patients who suffer from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) also tend to have additional gastrointestinal (GI) tract conditions, such as gastric reflux and hiatal hernia, which form at the opening in your diaphragm where your food pipe (esophagus) joins your stomach. Continue reading ...

Continue reading ...

Continue reading ...

Attention Parents with an Autistic Child: Is a Sleep Clinic in Order?

2009-10-10T10:01:00.001-07:00

Attention Parents with an Autistic Child: Is a Sleep Clinic in Order?

The Holy Grail of Biological Questions: Why Do We Sleep?
In this blog, I am going to deal with a question that has stumped some of the most talented researchers in the world. That should hopefully get your attention- this vexing question seems simple, but represents the “holy grail” of biology. The question: why do we sleep? Consider this- we spend approximately one-third of lives doing it and scientists are still not quit sure why. (Much of this and future blogs on...

Beware of Late-Night Eating

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is an effective treatment for most cases of primary insomnia, and for selected cases of secondary insomnia. There are a variety of behavioral and psychological treatments that comprise CBT-I, including stimulus control therapy, relaxation training, biofeedback, paradoxical intention, sleep restriction therapy, sleep hygiene education, and cognitive therapy. Usually several of these treatments are...

The Function of Sleep Not Quite Explained
We finished the last blog in mid-thought. We were talking about REM sleep and the idea of brain plasticity- the rewiring of our brains that take place when we learn new information. A recent study in rats showed that 4 days of REM sleep deprivation decreased the amount of new cells in the part of the brain that is associated with long-term memory, in other words they did not make those new circuits. Another study with...

Secondary Insomnia and the Drugs Used To Treat It
I previously posted about the diagnosis of insomnia, the difference between primary and secondary/comorbid insomnia, and the importance of evaluating for and treating any underlying causes of insomnia. I encourage you to read my Secondary Insomnia post before reading any more of this post. Today I will be talking more about medication treatment options for secondary (comorbid) insomnia. Although persons with primary insomnia (insomnia not...

The Basics of CPAP
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is the most common treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Except for tracheotomy, it is also the most effective treatment for OSA. CPAP is basically a computerized air pump that delivers pressurized air through a hose and then through a nasal interface into the patient's throat. The pressurized air splints open the upper airways, preventing the airflow pauses (apneas) and airflow...

Causes and Symptoms of Restless Leg Syndrome
We started our discussion about restless legs syndrome (RLS) in my recent blog, so let’s continue where we left off. Mild symptoms of RLS occur in 5-15% of the general population, which makes it the second or third most common sleep disorder. Of these cases, only about 2-3% are considered clinically severe enough to require treatment. It appears to occur more commonly in females and can even affect children. Due...

Adolescents Are Losing Sleep Over "It"

2009-10-09T18:01:00.001-07:00

Adolescents Are Losing Sleep Over "It"

The Basics of CPAP
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is the most common treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Except for tracheotomy, it is also the most effective treatment for OSA. CPAP is basically a computerized air pump that delivers pressurized air through a hose and then through a nasal interface into the patient's throat. The pressurized air splints open the upper airways, preventing the airflow pauses (apneas) and airflow...

Buying A Mattress: And The Survey Says...

Secondary Causes of Insomnia
Insomnia is defined as difficulty falling or staying asleep, or the complaint of unrestorative/unrefreshing sleep. Most people experience short-term insomnia from time to time, but when insomnia lasts for more than several weeks, it is considered chronic and should be evaluated by a physician. Insomnia used to be classified by sleep specialists as either primary or secondary insomnia. Secondary insomnia was insomnia that was due to an...

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is an effective treatment for most cases of primary insomnia, and for selected cases of secondary insomnia. There are a variety of behavioral and psychological treatments that comprise CBT-I, including stimulus control therapy, relaxation training, biofeedback, paradoxical intention, sleep restriction therapy, sleep hygiene education, and cognitive therapy. Usually several of these treatments are...

Sleeplessness Worse for Women

2009-10-09T02:01:00.001-07:00

Sleeplessness Worse for Women

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia
Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is an effective treatment for most cases of primary insomnia, and for selected cases of secondary insomnia. There are a variety of behavioral and psychological treatments that comprise CBT-I, including stimulus control therapy, relaxation training, biofeedback, paradoxical intention, sleep restriction therapy, sleep hygiene education, and cognitive therapy. Usually several of these treatments are...

Attention Parents with an Autistic Child: Is a Sleep Clinic in Order?

Sleep Paralysis Gets Screentime – But Not as a Horror Flick

Buying A Mattress: And The Survey Says...

Sleep on the Government's Agenda

Off to College - Probably Not Off to Sleep: Part I

Sleep Deprivation 101: What You Should Know

2009-10-08T11:01:00.001-07:00

Sleep Deprivation 101: What You Should Know
In my previous blogs I have written about the importance of good sleep, but I don’t think we ever really explained the significance of sleep deprivation and the effects on society and the individual. I thought that it would be a good idea to go over some significant facts and figures to convince you of the importance of getting a good restful sleep and of the need to address sleep problems with your doctor.What is sleep deprivation?It is...

Alcoholism May Alter Sleep Long-Term
Title: Alcoholism May Alter Sleep Long-Term
Category: Health News
Created: 10/5/2009 11:06:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 10/5/2009 11:06:10 AM

Weight Loss Helps Sleep Apnea
Title: Weight Loss Helps Sleep Apnea
Category: Health News
Created: 9/29/2009 9:16:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 9/29/2009 9:16:51 AM

Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Title: Posttraumatic Stress Disorder
Category: Diseases and Conditions
Created: 2/8/2000 4:14:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 9/30/2009

Altitude Sickness Symptoms
Title: Altitude Sickness Symptoms
Category: Doctor's Views
Created: 12/15/2005
Last Editorial Review: 10/1/2009

Sleep Deprivation Might Lead to Alzheimer's
Title: Sleep Deprivation Might Lead to Alzheimer's
Category: Health News
Created: 9/24/2009 2:10:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 9/25/2009

S.A.D. and Circadian Rhythms
“If we had no winter, the spring would not be so pleasant: if we did not sometimes taste of adversity, prosperity would not be so welcome.” - Anne Bradstreet, British poet It’s that time of the year again. Especially for those of us not fortunate enough to live in warmer climes- the winter is coming. As we all know, along with the season comes shorter days and longer nights. Some of us may...

Developmental Screening
Title: Developmental Screening
Category: Procedures and Tests
Created: 9/29/2009 12:33:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 9/29/2009 12:33:34 PM

Beware of Late-Night Eating

2009-10-07T12:01:00.001-07:00

Beware of Late-Night Eating

The Sounds and Sleeplessness in the ICU (Part I)

Sleep on the Government's Agenda

The Secret to a Happy Marriage (and Healthy Self): Separate Beds? I Doubt it!

The unsolved mystery of sleep
Despite the fact that humans will spend roughly one-third of their lives asleep, scientists still don't know why we do it.

Sleep - Too Little? Too Much?

2009-10-06T21:01:00.001-07:00

Sleep - Too Little? Too Much?
Sleep is one of the necessities of life along with water, food and air. But just how much sleep do we need? What is too much? What is too little, and how does sleep affect our health?A new study, reported in Science News, explains that Alzheimer's is linked to lack of sleep. Plaques of Alzheimer's increase in the brains of mice and also in the spinal fluid of people during wakefulness. These plaques destroy brain cells and lead to...

House panel approves healthcare reform bill
The House Energy and Commerce Committee has approved a sweeping bill designed to overhaul the U.S. healthcare system, clearing the way for a vote by the full House in the fall.

45,000 deaths per year linked to lack of insurance
Researchers say that number--which equals one person every 12 minutes--equals more deaths annually than deaths caused from murder and drunk driving combined.

Lack of Exercise = Lack of Sleep
Tommy sprawls on the couch, his eyes glued to the TV screen and the latest Spiderman movie. Shelly is curled up in the easy chair, her only movement her fingers on the controls of her Game Boy. It's a perfect summer day filled with golden sunshine and light breezes. Tommy should be outside playing baseball. On the sidewalk across the street, Shelly's friends are engaged in a game of hopscotch. But hey! Both the kids are quiet and...

Senate Finance Committee rejects public healthcare option
Five Democrats voted with all of the panel's Republicans in opposing the inclusion of the government-run option in the bill in what is expected to be the first of several battles in Congress over the public option.

Lack of sleep may play a role in Alzheimer's

2009-10-06T03:01:00.001-07:00

Experts say this study is another in the long line of consequences from chronic sleep deprivation. Read more ...

Statistics show that the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA), a lobbying group that represents 32 brandname drug companies, and its member companies have spent $40 million lobbying Congress as the lawmakers work to overhaul the U.S. healthcare system. Read more ...

Five Democrats voted with all of the panel's Republicans in opposing the inclusion of the government-run option in the bill in what is expected to be the first of several battles in Congress over the public option. Read more ...

In my last blog we discussed at length the different stages of sleep, namely non-REM and REM, the biological need for sleep to stay alive, and started discussing what some researchers believe may be the function of some portions of non-REM sleep. We reviewed how there is some evidence linking declarative memory (memory of facts and figures) to slow wave sleep and procedural memory (the ability to perform tasks like riding a bike or playing... Read more ...

Natural remedies such as St. John's wort and fish oil can cause harm if taken in the wrong doses or in conjunction with other drugs, experts say. Read more ...

You’ve all seen the ads. You might have even heard about the charges of “disease mongering” that have been bandied about, specifically about this disorder. We are going to start covering the topic of restless legs syndrome (RLS). (By the way, disease mongering is when someone with a financial interest in a disease, like a pharmaceutical company with an effective medicine, publicizes a disorder with the sole... Read more ...

Almost 40 million Americans suffer from chronic insomnia, but new research suggests that doctors often prescribe antidepressants for the disorder instead of sleep meds. Read more ...

ImThera Medical To Begin European Clinical Trials In Belgium

2009-10-05T06:01:00.001-07:00

ImThera Medical To Begin European Clinical Trials In Belgium
ImThera Medical, Inc. has received Ethics Committee clearance to begin human clinical trials in Belgium. The trials will include ImThera's Targeted Hypoglossal Neurostimulation (THN) Sleep Therapy to treat Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). Along with the clinical trial approvals, ImThera has received ISO 13485 certification of its quality system as a pre-requisite for the future CE mark application for European commercialization of medical products.

Insomniac Mice Created With Gene Variation That Lets People Get By On Less Sleep
A University of Utah sleep expert has joined with researchers at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), and Stanford University to identify a genetic variation in humans, which the scientists also developed in mouse models, that allows a rare number of people to require less sleep than others. Published in the Aug.

Medical Website Design Company, Aurora Medical Design, Launches New UCSF Sleep Surgery Website
Aurora Medical Design, a medical website design and medical marketing company, introduces the launch of the brand new University of California, San Francisco (UCSF) Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Division of Sleep Surgery website, http://www.sleepsurgery.ucsf.edu.

MSU Research: Sleep Helps Reduce Errors In Memory
Sleep may reduce mistakes in memory, according to a first-of-its-kind study led by a cognitive neuroscientist at Michigan State University. The findings, which appear in the September issue of the journal Learning & Memory, have practical implications for everyone from students flubbing multiple choice tests to senior citizens confusing their medications, said Kimberly Fenn, principal investigator and MSU assistant professor of psychology.

The Basics of CPAP
Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is the most common treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Except for tracheotomy, it is also the most effective treatment for OSA. CPAP is basically a computerized air pump that delivers pressurized air through a hose and then through a nasal interface into the patient's throat. The pressurized air splints open the upper airways, preventing the airflow pauses (apneas) and airflow...

Sleep Deprivation And Dementia
A study published in Science has found that levels of amyloid beta, a protein fragment associated with Alzheimers disease, rose and fell in association with sleep and wakefulness in mice. 'It is interesting that there may be a link between sleep and the build up of the protein associated with the development of Alzheimer's disease.

Ways To Quiet Ordinary Snoring
Ordinary, loud snoring doesn't seem to be harmful, according to the September issue of Mayo Clinic Health Letter. But snorers still may want to seek treatment to stop snoring, reduce embarrassment and improve sleep for themselves and their bed partner. Snoring is caused by relaxed and sagging tissues. As sleep deepens, the tongue relaxes, as do the soft tissues of the throat and the roof of the mouth (soft palate). The tissues can sag into the airway, causing it to narrow.

Tired, Stressed Docs Make More Mistakes, Study Finds

2009-10-04T14:01:00.001-07:00

Title: Tired, Stressed Docs Make More Mistakes, Study Finds
Category: Health News
Created: 9/22/2009 4:10:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 9/23/2009 Continue reading ...

Tommy sprawls on the couch, his eyes glued to the TV screen and the latest Spiderman movie. Shelly is curled up in the easy chair, her only movement her fingers on the controls of her Game Boy. It's a perfect summer day filled with golden sunshine and light breezes. Tommy should be outside playing baseball. On the sidewalk across the street, Shelly's friends are engaged in a game of hopscotch. But hey! Both the kids are quiet and... Continue reading ...

Title: Studies Evaluate Thyroid Treatment During Pregnancy
Category: Health News
Created: 9/25/2009 12:10:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 9/28/2009 Continue reading ...

I suffer from nocturia. It's believed that over two-thirds of people over 55 may also struggle with nocturia. They just aren't able to put a name to it. What is nocturia? Nocturia isn't actually a sleep disorder. A better description would be a sleep related problem. In simple words, nocturia is the need to get up to go to the bathroom to urinate several times a night. Having this happen once or twice a night is actually normal, but... Continue reading ...

Title: Weight Loss Helps Sleep Apnea
Category: Health News
Created: 9/29/2009 9:16:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 9/29/2009 9:16:51 AM Continue reading ...

It's no surprise to hear that Michael Jackson suffered from insomnia. According to an Associated Press news release, he'd been plague with insomnia as far back as 1989 and the "Bad" tour. Sleep problems are common among celebrities, and, no matter your personal opinion of Michael Jackson, there's no doubt he was a celebrity - a super nova of the music world. Can you imagine the stress and pressure of most of life? Then add to that his... Continue reading ...

Altitude Sickness Symptoms

2009-10-03T20:01:00.001-07:00

Title: Altitude Sickness Symptoms
Category: Doctor's Views
Created: 12/15/2005
Last Editorial Review: 10/1/2009 More at...

Title: Developmental Screening
Category: Procedures and Tests
Created: 9/29/2009 12:33:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 9/29/2009 12:33:34 PM More at...

More at...

In my last blog we were reviewing the fundamental question of why we sleep. We left off trying to sort out the level of activity of the brain and body during different stages of sleep (i.e. Non-REM and REM). During non-REM the body and brain are at their most relaxed state. Ironically, most people think of REM as deep sleep, but actually during REM the level of brain activity resembles the awake state. Our most... More at...

Title: Infants: Child Development
Category: Health and Living
Created: 10/2/2009 4:33:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 10/2/2009 4:33:58 PM More at...

Title: Sleep Deprivation Might Lead to Alzheimer's
Category: Health News
Created: 9/24/2009 2:10:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 9/25/2009 More at...

More at...

More at...

Making the most of expiring health insurance

2009-10-03T02:01:00.001-07:00

A health reporter talks about how you can prioritize the use of your employer's insurance if you believe you're in danger of losing it. Complete news at...

Five Democrats voted with all of the panel's Republicans in opposing the inclusion of the government-run option in the bill in what is expected to be the first of several battles in Congress over the public option. Complete news at...

Researchers say that number--which equals one person every 12 minutes--equals more deaths annually than deaths caused from murder and drunk driving combined. Complete news at...

A lucky few can get by just fine on six hours of sleep, and a new study suggests a genetic mutation might help explain why. Complete news at...

Despite the fact that humans will spend roughly one-third of their lives asleep, scientists still don't know why we do it. Complete news at...

Dr. Bernadine Healy gives four things that you and your representatives in Washington should know about the healthcare reform bill known as H.R. 3200. Complete news at...

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia

2009-10-02T09:01:00.001-07:00

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is an effective treatment for most cases of primary insomnia, and for selected cases of secondary insomnia. There are a variety of behavioral and psychological treatments that comprise CBT-I, including stimulus control therapy, relaxation training, biofeedback, paradoxical intention, sleep restriction therapy, sleep hygiene education, and cognitive therapy. Usually several of these treatments are... Complete news at...

I previously posted about the diagnosis of insomnia, the difference between primary and secondary/comorbid insomnia, and the importance of evaluating for and treating any underlying causes of insomnia. I encourage you to read my Secondary Insomnia post before reading any more of this post. Today I will be talking more about medication treatment options for secondary (comorbid) insomnia. Although persons with primary insomnia (insomnia not... Complete news at...

In my last blog we discussed at length the different stages of sleep, namely non-REM and REM, the biological need for sleep to stay alive, and started discussing what some researchers believe may be the function of some portions of non-REM sleep. We reviewed how there is some evidence linking declarative memory (memory of facts and figures) to slow wave sleep and procedural memory (the ability to perform tasks like riding a bike or playing... Complete news at...

Insomnia is defined as difficulty falling or staying asleep, or the complaint of unrestorative/unrefreshing sleep. Most people experience short-term insomnia from time to time, but when insomnia lasts for more than several weeks, it is considered chronic and should be evaluated by a physician. Insomnia used to be classified by sleep specialists as either primary or secondary insomnia. Secondary insomnia was insomnia that was due to an... Complete news at...

In this blog, I am going to deal with a question that has stumped some of the most talented researchers in the world. That should hopefully get your attention- this vexing question seems simple, but represents the “holy grail” of biology. The question: why do we sleep? Consider this- we spend approximately one-third of lives doing it and scientists are still not quit sure why. (Much of this and future blogs on... Complete news at...

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is the most common treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Except for tracheotomy, it is also the most effective treatment for OSA. CPAP is basically a computerized air pump that delivers pressurized air through a hose and then through a nasal interface into the patient's throat. The pressurized air splints open the upper airways, preventing the airflow pauses (apneas) and airflow... Complete news at...

Let’s continue talking about restless legs syndrome (RLS). We reviewed some of the symptoms, causes, and adverse effects of restless legs syndrome in the past two blogs, now let’s talk about how RLS is diagnosed. Due to the unusual sensations that patients with RLS complain of, it is sometimes difficult for a healthcare provider to determine if these complaints are actually related to RLS. Contrary to popular... Complete news at...

WUSTL Research Finds Individual Cells Isolated From The Biological Clock Can Keep Daily Time, But Are Unreliable

2009-10-01T13:01:00.001-07:00

WUSTL Research Finds Individual Cells Isolated From The Biological Clock Can Keep Daily Time, But Are Unreliable
Alexis Webb enters a small room at Washington University in St. Louis with walls, floor and ceiling painted dark green, shuts the door, turns off the lights and bends over a microscope in a black box draped with black cloth. Through the microscope, she can see a single nerve cell on a glass cover slip glowing dimly. The glow tells her the isolated nerve cell is busy keeping time. Webb, a graduate fellow in the Neuroscience Ph.D. Program, working with Erik Herzog, Ph.D.

Insomnia: Studies Confirm Calcium And Magnesium Effective
According to the National Sleep Foundation (NSF), almost six out of ten Americans report having insomnia and sleep problems at least a few nights a week. Insomnia is defined as "An inability to fall asleep or remain asleep long enough to feel rested, especially when the problem continues over time." In an effort to combat this, as many as 25 percent of the people in the United States use medications to help them sleep.

What Is Jet Lag? What Causes Jet Lag? How Do You Prevent Jet Lag?
Jet lag is also known as time zone change syndrome or desynchronosis. It is considered a sleep disorder that can affect everybody who travels across multiple time zones in airplanes. Jet lag effects largely reflect de-synchronization between the body's internal time clock and local environmental cues.

Insomniac Mice Created With Gene Variation That Lets People Get By On Less Sleep
A University of Utah sleep expert has joined with researchers at the University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), and Stanford University to identify a genetic variation in humans, which the scientists also developed in mouse models, that allows a rare number of people to require less sleep than others. Published in the Aug.

Temple-Led Study Finds Weight Loss Has Significant Impact On Sleep Apnea
More than 12 million people in the U.S. suffer from sleep apnea, most common among the overweight and obese. More than just loud snoring, it can lead to high blood pressure, stroke, cardiovascular disease and a poor quality of life. For years, doctors have told patients with sleep apnea that their best bet for alleviating it would be to lose weight, but there's been very little research-based evidence to prove that.

2-Way Communication Between Common Biological Pathways And Body's Daily Clock Revealed By Gene Screen
While scientists have known for several years that our body's internal clock helps regulate many biological processes, researchers have found that the reverse is also true: Many common biological processes - including insulin metabolism - regulate the clock, according to a new study by investigators at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, the Genomics Institute of the Novartis Research Foundation, and the University of California at San Diego.

Sleeplessness Worse for Women

Beware of Late-Night Eating

People With Diabetic Nerve Pain Shows The Condition Significantly Impacts Daily Activities Such As Exercise And Sleep Yet Often Goes Untreated

2009-09-30T20:01:00.001-07:00

In a new online survey, eighty-five percent of people who experience diabetic nerve pain said that their pain was one of the top three most bothersome complications of their diabetes. Despite the fact that people with diabetic nerve pain recognize the condition's impact on their lives and eighty-four percent of those surveyed said they have discussed the condition with a healthcare provider, just slightly less than half of respondents (49 percent) were treating their pain. Complete news at...

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is the most common treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Except for tracheotomy, it is also the most effective treatment for OSA. CPAP is basically a computerized air pump that delivers pressurized air through a hose and then through a nasal interface into the patient's throat. The pressurized air splints open the upper airways, preventing the airflow pauses (apneas) and airflow... Complete news at...

Complete news at...

ImThera Medical, Inc. announced that it has completed development of its Targeted Hypoglossal Neurostimulation (THN) system for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA). More than 800,000 patients in the US are annually diagnosed with OSA. While Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) remains as the established therapy, studies show that up to 50% of patients do not comply with CPAP. Complete news at...

More than 12 million people in the U.S. suffer from sleep apnea, most common among the overweight and obese. More than just loud snoring, it can lead to high blood pressure, stroke, cardiovascular disease and a poor quality of life. For years, doctors have told patients with sleep apnea that their best bet for alleviating it would be to lose weight, but there's been very little research-based evidence to prove that. Complete news at...

Complete news at...

Complete news at...

WUSTL Research Finds Individual Cells Isolated From The Biological Clock Can Keep Daily Time, But Are Unreliable

2009-09-30T05:01:00.001-07:00

WUSTL Research Finds Individual Cells Isolated From The Biological Clock Can Keep Daily Time, But Are Unreliable
Alexis Webb enters a small room at Washington University in St. Louis with walls, floor and ceiling painted dark green, shuts the door, turns off the lights and bends over a microscope in a black box draped with black cloth. Through the microscope, she can see a single nerve cell on a glass cover slip glowing dimly. The glow tells her the isolated nerve cell is busy keeping time. Webb, a graduate fellow in the Neuroscience Ph.D. Program, working with Erik Herzog, Ph.D.

Eating At The Wrong Time Could Be Fueling The Obesity Epidemic
Eat less, exercise more. Now there is new evidence to support adding another "must" to the weight-loss mantra: eat at the right time of day. A Northwestern University study has found that eating at irregular times -- the equivalent of the middle of the night for humans, when the body wants to sleep -- influences weight gain. The regulation of energy by the body's circadian rhythms may play a significant role.

Saving Daylight, Increasing Danger: Daylight Saving Time Leads To Less Sleep, More Injuries On The Job
Every March, most Americans welcome the switch to daylight saving time because of the longer days, but also dread losing an hour of sleep after they move their clocks forward. Now a new study shows that losing just an hour of sleep could pose some dangerous consequences for those in hazardous work environments. The findings are reported in the September issue of the Journal of Applied Psychology, which is published by the American Psychological Association.

Sanofi-Aventis Receives Complete Response Letter From The FDA For Eplivanserin (Ciltyri(R)) Submission
Sanofi-aventis (EURONEXT: SAN and NYSE: SNY) announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a complete response letter regarding the company's New Drug Application (NDA) for eplivanserin (Ciltyri(R)). Eplivanserin was reviewed as a potential treatment for patients with chronic insomnia characterized by difficulties with sleep maintenance.

Author has Rare Sleep Disorder
George Dawes Green is an author of thrillers including, in 1995, "The Juror" and, in 2009, "Ravens." Writing, or any occupation where a person can set his own hours, is ideal for George Dawes Green, because he has a rare sleep disorder where his hours of sleeping and waking fall later every day. This is known as free-running circadian rhythm sleep disorder.This disorder is related to day and night,to light and darkness and it is...

It May Be in Your Genes

2009-09-29T11:01:00.001-07:00

It May Be in Your Genes
"Gene" is a word used often in today's world - gene pool, gene therapy. genetics. But what, exactly is a gene? The U.S. National Library of Medicine has an excellent definition : "A gene is the basic physical and functional unit of heredity. Genes, which are made up of DNA, act as instructions to make molecules called proteins. In humans, genes vary in size from a few hundred DNA bases to more than 2 million bases. The Human Genome...

Sleep Apnea Tips
Most people know that sleep apnea is a leading cause of death from heart attacks and strokes. However recent research has revealed that sleep apnea is a leading cause of death from many causes, even in people judged to be healthy. Researchers at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore revealed that men aged 40 to 70 with severe sleep apnea were twice as likely to die as men in the same age group who did not suffer from the disorder....

Author has Rare Sleep Disorder
George Dawes Green is an author of thrillers including, in 1995, "The Juror" and, in 2009, "Ravens." Writing, or any occupation where a person can set his own hours, is ideal for George Dawes Green, because he has a rare sleep disorder where his hours of sleeping and waking fall later every day. This is known as free-running circadian rhythm sleep disorder.This disorder is related to day and night,to light and darkness and it is...

Beware of Late-Night Eating

Sleeplessness Worse for Women

Lack of Exercise = Lack of Sleep
Tommy sprawls on the couch, his eyes glued to the TV screen and the latest Spiderman movie. Shelly is curled up in the easy chair, her only movement her fingers on the controls of her Game Boy. It's a perfect summer day filled with golden sunshine and light breezes. Tommy should be outside playing baseball. On the sidewalk across the street, Shelly's friends are engaged in a game of hopscotch. But hey! Both the kids are quiet and...

Off to College - Probably Not Off to Sleep: Part I

Did Diprivan Lead to Michael Jackson's Death?

2009-09-28T18:01:00.001-07:00

It's no surprise to hear that Michael Jackson suffered from insomnia. According to an Associated Press news release, he'd been plague with insomnia as far back as 1989 and the "Bad" tour. Sleep problems are common among celebrities, and, no matter your personal opinion of Michael Jackson, there's no doubt he was a celebrity - a super nova of the music world. Can you imagine the stress and pressure of most of life? Then add to that his... Complete news at...

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is the most common treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Except for tracheotomy, it is also the most effective treatment for OSA. CPAP is basically a computerized air pump that delivers pressurized air through a hose and then through a nasal interface into the patient's throat. The pressurized air splints open the upper airways, preventing the airflow pauses (apneas) and airflow... Complete news at...

"Gene" is a word used often in today's world - gene pool, gene therapy. genetics. But what, exactly is a gene? The U.S. National Library of Medicine has an excellent definition : "A gene is the basic physical and functional unit of heredity. Genes, which are made up of DNA, act as instructions to make molecules called proteins. In humans, genes vary in size from a few hundred DNA bases to more than 2 million bases. The Human Genome... Complete news at...

With the hectic lifestyles most of us lead these days, napping has become almost a way of life. Think naps are for sissies? Listen. Even the sports teams are getting into it. "A lot of things may change in the NHL," Scott Mellanby of the Atlanta Thrashers says, "but not naps. It's just a part of being a hockey player." One complaint from participants in the Olympics is sleep deprivation. With jet lag and getting used to... Complete news at...

Most people know that sleep apnea is a leading cause of death from heart attacks and strokes. However recent research has revealed that sleep apnea is a leading cause of death from many causes, even in people judged to be healthy. Researchers at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore revealed that men aged 40 to 70 with severe sleep apnea were twice as likely to die as men in the same age group who did not suffer from the disorder.... Complete news at...

I previously posted about the diagnosis of insomnia, the difference between primary and secondary/comorbid insomnia, and the importance of evaluating for and treating any underlying causes of insomnia. I encourage you to read my Secondary Insomnia post before reading any more of this post. Today I will be talking more about medication treatment options for secondary (comorbid) insomnia. Although persons with primary insomnia (insomnia not... Complete news at...

George Dawes Green is an author of thrillers including, in 1995, "The Juror" and, in 2009, "Ravens." Writing, or any occupation where a person can set his own hours, is ideal for George Dawes Green, because he has a rare sleep disorder where his hours of sleeping and waking fall later every day. This is known as free-running circadian rhythm sleep disorder.This disorder is related to day and night,to light and darkness and it is... Complete news at...

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is an effective treatment for most cases of primary insomnia, and for selected cases of secondary insomnia. There are a variety of behavioral and psychological treatments that comprise CBT-I, including stimulus control therapy, relaxation training, biofeedback, paradoxical intention, sleep restriction therapy, sleep hygiene education, and cognitive therapy. Usually several of these treatments are... Complete news at...

Insomnia Is Bad For The Heart

2009-09-28T02:01:00.001-07:00

Can't sleep at night? A new study published in the journal Sleep has found that people who suffer from insomnia have heightened night-time blood pressure, which can lead to cardiac problems. The investigation, which measured the 24-hour blood pressure of insomniacs compared to sound sleepers, was conducted by researchers from the UniversitÃ© de MontrÃ©al, its affiliated HÃ´pital du SacrÃ©-Cour de MontrÃ©al Sleep Disorders Centre and the UniversitÃ© Laval. More at...

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In a new online survey, eighty-five percent of people who experience diabetic nerve pain said that their pain was one of the top three most bothersome complications of their diabetes. Despite the fact that people with diabetic nerve pain recognize the condition's impact on their lives and eighty-four percent of those surveyed said they have discussed the condition with a healthcare provider, just slightly less than half of respondents (49 percent) were treating their pain. More at...

Ordinary, loud snoring doesn't seem to be harmful, according to the September issue of Mayo Clinic Health Letter. But snorers still may want to seek treatment to stop snoring, reduce embarrassment and improve sleep for themselves and their bed partner. Snoring is caused by relaxed and sagging tissues. As sleep deepens, the tongue relaxes, as do the soft tissues of the throat and the roof of the mouth (soft palate). The tissues can sag into the airway, causing it to narrow. More at...

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Mayo Clinic researchers report that distress and fatigue among medical residents are independent contributors to self-perceived medical errors. The findings appear in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA). "We looked at distress and fatigue together and found that both factors can lead to a significant risk of medical error," says Colin West, M.D., Ph.D., Mayo Clinic physician and lead author of the study. More at...

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Is Your Sleep Deprivation Leading You to Diabetes?

2009-09-27T10:01:00.001-07:00

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It's no surprise to hear that Michael Jackson suffered from insomnia. According to an Associated Press news release, he'd been plague with insomnia as far back as 1989 and the "Bad" tour. Sleep problems are common among celebrities, and, no matter your personal opinion of Michael Jackson, there's no doubt he was a celebrity - a super nova of the music world. Can you imagine the stress and pressure of most of life? Then add to that his... Continue reading ...

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Continue reading ...

Secondary Causes of Insomnia

2009-09-26T17:01:00.001-07:00

Insomnia is defined as difficulty falling or staying asleep, or the complaint of unrestorative/unrefreshing sleep. Most people experience short-term insomnia from time to time, but when insomnia lasts for more than several weeks, it is considered chronic and should be evaluated by a physician. Insomnia used to be classified by sleep specialists as either primary or secondary insomnia. Secondary insomnia was insomnia that was due to an... More at...

A recent news article states: "Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is associated with behavior problems in children with asthma, researchers have found." But behavior problems are often linked to any type of sleep disordered breathing. It was discovered that approximately a third of children with asthma also had sleep disordered breathing resulting from some form of sleep disorders. Those children had significantly worse behavior... More at...

It's annoying for anyone to have a buzzing mosquito flying around the room. They land for an instant, never long enough to swat them, but just enough to arouse, then off they go again for another circle of the room. This is not only irritating to a child but can be downright frightening. To help keep mosquitoes and other flying insects out of the house, make sure doors are closed quickly. Don't stand and chat with a neighbor with the... More at...

"Gene" is a word used often in today's world - gene pool, gene therapy. genetics. But what, exactly is a gene? The U.S. National Library of Medicine has an excellent definition : "A gene is the basic physical and functional unit of heredity. Genes, which are made up of DNA, act as instructions to make molecules called proteins. In humans, genes vary in size from a few hundred DNA bases to more than 2 million bases. The Human Genome... More at...

Tommy sprawls on the couch, his eyes glued to the TV screen and the latest Spiderman movie. Shelly is curled up in the easy chair, her only movement her fingers on the controls of her Game Boy. It's a perfect summer day filled with golden sunshine and light breezes. Tommy should be outside playing baseball. On the sidewalk across the street, Shelly's friends are engaged in a game of hopscotch. But hey! Both the kids are quiet and... More at...

Better Marriage, Better Sleep

2009-09-25T19:01:00.001-07:00

Better Marriage, Better Sleep

Infant Head-Flattening Linked to Ear Infections
Title: Infant Head-Flattening Linked to Ear Infections
Category: Health News
Created: 9/24/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 9/24/2009

Not Fit to Fly

Sleep Paralysis Gets Screentime – But Not as a Horror Flick

Moss Rehabilitation Research Institute Launches Largest Study To Date To Explore "Awakening" Effects Of Common Sleep Drug On Vegetative Patients
Moss Rehabilitation Research Institute (MRRI), the research arm of MossRehab, one of the world's leading clinical rehabilitation centers, has launched an ambitious research study to investigate how the sleep drug zolpidem might restore consciousness for patients in the vegetative state.

Top Tips For Healthy And Young Looking Skin
Skin experts say that the best way to keep your skin healthy and looking young is to protect it from the sun and not smoke: and after that, taking care with how you wash and moisturize your skin and also shaving carefully also helps.

Association Between Chemotherapy For Breast Cancer And Disruption Of Sleep-Wake Rhythm In Women

2009-09-25T01:01:00.001-07:00

A study in the Sept.1 issue of the journal Sleep shows that the sleep-wake activity rhythms of breast cancer patients are impaired during the administration of chemotherapy. Results indicate that the first cycle of chemotherapy is associated with a temporary disruption of these rhythms, while repeated administration of chemotherapy results in progressively worse and more enduring impairments. Complete news at...

Ordinary, loud snoring doesn't seem to be harmful, according to the September issue of Mayo Clinic Health Letter. But snorers still may want to seek treatment to stop snoring, reduce embarrassment and improve sleep for themselves and their bed partner. Snoring is caused by relaxed and sagging tissues. As sleep deepens, the tongue relaxes, as do the soft tissues of the throat and the roof of the mouth (soft palate). The tissues can sag into the airway, causing it to narrow. Complete news at...

The House Energy and Commerce Committee has approved a sweeping bill designed to overhaul the U.S. healthcare system, clearing the way for a vote by the full House in the fall. Complete news at...

Can't sleep at night? A new study published in the journal Sleep has found that people who suffer from insomnia have heightened nighttime blood pressure, which can lead to cardiac problems. The investigation, which measured the 24-hour blood pressure of insomniacs compared to sound sleepers, was conducted by researchers from the UniversitÃ© de MontrÃ©al, its affiliated HÃ´pital du SacrÃ©-Coeur de MontrÃ©al Sleep Disorders Centre and the UniversitÃ© Laval. Complete news at...

Sanofi-aventis (EURONEXT: SAN and NYSE: SNY) announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has issued a complete response letter regarding the company's New Drug Application (NDA) for eplivanserin (Ciltyri(R)). Eplivanserin was reviewed as a potential treatment for patients with chronic insomnia characterized by difficulties with sleep maintenance. Complete news at...

There has been much debate about the relationship between gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and sleep. Three new studies in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology explore GERD's effect on sleep quality and the health-care system as well as how a widely prescribed sleeping pill may mask the disease. Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology is the official journal of the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) Institute. Complete news at...

Moss Rehabilitation Research Institute (MRRI), the research arm of MossRehab, one of the world's leading clinical rehabilitation centers, has launched an ambitious research study to investigate how the sleep drug zolpidem might restore consciousness for patients in the vegetative state. Complete news at...

Sleep on the Government's Agenda

2009-09-24T07:01:00.001-07:00

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Title: Chemotherapy Linked to Sleep-Wake Cycle Disruptions
Category: Health News
Created: 9/1/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 9/1/2009 More at...

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Title: Herbs: Toxicities And Drug Interactions
Category: Doctor's Views
Created: 11/22/1998 6:38:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 9/9/2009 More at...

Title: Workplace Bullying Linked to Sleep Problems
Category: Health News
Created: 9/2/2009
Last Editorial Review: 9/2/2009 More at...

Treating the Winter Blues

2009-09-23T14:01:00.001-07:00

Treating the Winter Blues
In my last blog we began a discussion of seasonal affective disorder or SAD. We will pick up where we left off. There is actually some debate in the psychiatric community whether or not SAD is actually a separate diagnosis, apart from general depression. Those who claim it is not suggest that it is no more than a seasonal coincidence that occurs in someone with recurring episodes of depression. As support to this idea...

Memory, Brain Function, and REM Sleep: Are They Related?
In my last blog we discussed at length the different stages of sleep, namely non-REM and REM, the biological need for sleep to stay alive, and started discussing what some researchers believe may be the function of some portions of non-REM sleep. We reviewed how there is some evidence linking declarative memory (memory of facts and figures) to slow wave sleep and procedural memory (the ability to perform tasks like riding a bike or playing...

Drugmakers pour $40 million into healthcare reform debate
Statistics show that the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA), a lobbying group that represents 32 brandname drug companies, and its member companies have spent $40 million lobbying Congress as the lawmakers work to overhaul the U.S. healthcare system.

Doctors judge patients by their looks, studies show
Several studies have found that doctors treat patients differently depending on their race and body weight.

Internet-based therapy may treat insomnia
A new software that uses quizzes, stories, and games may help people who suffer from insomnia, experts say.

Vitamins and herbs that can harm you
Natural remedies such as St. John's wort and fish oil can cause harm if taken in the wrong doses or in conjunction with other drugs, experts say.

The unsolved mystery of sleep
Despite the fact that humans will spend roughly one-third of their lives asleep, scientists still don't know why we do it.

Sleep training helps insomnia in arthritis patients
According to a new study, a type of therapy known as cognitive behavior therapy may ease pain and sleep problems in older people who suffer from both arthritis and insomnia.

Moms: A New School Year Can Spell Sleep Relief (or Not)

2009-09-22T22:01:00.001-07:00

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Let’s continue talking about restless legs syndrome (RLS). We reviewed some of the symptoms, causes, and adverse effects of restless legs syndrome in the past two blogs, now let’s talk about how RLS is diagnosed. Due to the unusual sensations that patients with RLS complain of, it is sometimes difficult for a healthcare provider to determine if these complaints are actually related to RLS. Contrary to popular... Continue reading ...

In my last blog we were reviewing the fundamental question of why we sleep. We left off trying to sort out the level of activity of the brain and body during different stages of sleep (i.e. Non-REM and REM). During non-REM the body and brain are at their most relaxed state. Ironically, most people think of REM as deep sleep, but actually during REM the level of brain activity resembles the awake state. Our most... Continue reading ...

Continue reading ...

In my previous blogs I have written about the importance of good sleep, but I don’t think we ever really explained the significance of sleep deprivation and the effects on society and the individual. I thought that it would be a good idea to go over some significant facts and figures to convince you of the importance of getting a good restful sleep and of the need to address sleep problems with your doctor.What is sleep deprivation?It is... Continue reading ...

You’ve all seen the ads. You might have even heard about the charges of “disease mongering” that have been bandied about, specifically about this disorder. We are going to start covering the topic of restless legs syndrome (RLS). (By the way, disease mongering is when someone with a financial interest in a disease, like a pharmaceutical company with an effective medicine, publicizes a disorder with the sole... Continue reading ...

Continue reading ...

School Days Give Some Kids a Headache

2009-09-22T02:01:00.001-07:00

Title: School Days Give Some Kids a Headache
Category: Health News
Created: 9/3/2009 4:10:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 9/4/2009 Complete news at...

Complete news at...

Complete news at...

Complete news at...

Title: Health Tip: Can't Sleep?
Category: Health News
Created: 9/2/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 9/2/2009 Complete news at...

Title: Nightly Snacking May Speed Weight Gain
Category: Health News
Created: 9/3/2009 12:10:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 9/4/2009 Complete news at...

Complete news at...

Complete news at...

Nightly Snacking May Speed Weight Gain

2009-09-21T10:01:00.001-07:00

Title: Nightly Snacking May Speed Weight Gain
Category: Health News
Created: 9/3/2009 12:10:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 9/4/2009 More at...

"Gene" is a word used often in today's world - gene pool, gene therapy. genetics. But what, exactly is a gene? The U.S. National Library of Medicine has an excellent definition : "A gene is the basic physical and functional unit of heredity. Genes, which are made up of DNA, act as instructions to make molecules called proteins. In humans, genes vary in size from a few hundred DNA bases to more than 2 million bases. The Human Genome... More at...

Title: Sleep Training Helps Ease Insomnia Tied to Arthritis
Category: Health News
Created: 8/20/2009 2:10:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 8/21/2009 More at...

Title: Eat Late, Put on Weight?
Category: Health News
Created: 9/8/2009 10:09:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 9/8/2009 10:09:46 AM More at...

Title: Soothe Back-to-School Anxiety, Teach Kids to Relax
Category: Health News
Created: 8/23/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 8/24/2009 More at...

Title: Workplace Bullying Linked to Sleep Problems
Category: Health News
Created: 9/2/2009
Last Editorial Review: 9/2/2009 More at...

Stormy Weather, Stormy Sleep

2009-09-20T18:01:00.001-07:00

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It's annoying for anyone to have a buzzing mosquito flying around the room. They land for an instant, never long enough to swat them, but just enough to arouse, then off they go again for another circle of the room. This is not only irritating to a child but can be downright frightening. To help keep mosquitoes and other flying insects out of the house, make sure doors are closed quickly. Don't stand and chat with a neighbor with the... Continue reading ...

Title: PMS vs. PMDD - Whats' the Scoop?
Category: Doctor's Views
Created: 6/26/2001 5:05:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 9/10/2009 Continue reading ...

Most people know that sleep apnea is a leading cause of death from heart attacks and strokes. However recent research has revealed that sleep apnea is a leading cause of death from many causes, even in people judged to be healthy. Researchers at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore revealed that men aged 40 to 70 with severe sleep apnea were twice as likely to die as men in the same age group who did not suffer from the disorder.... Continue reading ...

It's no surprise to hear that Michael Jackson suffered from insomnia. According to an Associated Press news release, he'd been plague with insomnia as far back as 1989 and the "Bad" tour. Sleep problems are common among celebrities, and, no matter your personal opinion of Michael Jackson, there's no doubt he was a celebrity - a super nova of the music world. Can you imagine the stress and pressure of most of life? Then add to that his... Continue reading ...

Continue reading ...

Title: Eat Late, Put on Weight?
Category: Health News
Created: 9/8/2009 10:09:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 9/8/2009 10:09:46 AM Continue reading ...

Blood Pressure Increased By Insomnia

2009-09-20T01:01:00.001-07:00

Blood Pressure Increased By Insomnia
Can't sleep at night? A new study published in the journal Sleep has found that people who suffer from insomnia have heightened nighttime blood pressure, which can lead to cardiac problems. The investigation, which measured the 24-hour blood pressure of insomniacs compared to sound sleepers, was conducted by researchers from the UniversitÃ© de MontrÃ©al, its affiliated HÃ´pital du SacrÃ©-Coeur de MontrÃ©al Sleep Disorders Centre and the UniversitÃ© Laval.

Sleep Quality Negatively Impacted By GERD, Results In Considerable Economic Burden
There has been much debate about the relationship between gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and sleep. Three new studies in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology explore GERD's effect on sleep quality and the health-care system as well as how a widely prescribed sleeping pill may mask the disease. Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology is the official journal of the American Gastroenterological Association (AGA) Institute.

Association Between Chemotherapy For Breast Cancer And Disruption Of Sleep-Wake Rhythm In Women
A study in the Sept.1 issue of the journal Sleep shows that the sleep-wake activity rhythms of breast cancer patients are impaired during the administration of chemotherapy. Results indicate that the first cycle of chemotherapy is associated with a temporary disruption of these rhythms, while repeated administration of chemotherapy results in progressively worse and more enduring impairments.

Saving Daylight, Increasing Danger: Daylight Saving Time Leads To Less Sleep, More Injuries On The Job
Every March, most Americans welcome the switch to daylight saving time because of the longer days, but also dread losing an hour of sleep after they move their clocks forward. Now a new study shows that losing just an hour of sleep could pose some dangerous consequences for those in hazardous work environments. The findings are reported in the September issue of the Journal of Applied Psychology, which is published by the American Psychological Association.

Philips Introduces FullLife Full-face Mask As Minimal-contact Alternative For Obstructive Sleep Apnea Patients
Royal Philips Electronics (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHI) today announced the introduction of the FullLife full-face mask for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This revolutionary mask covers both the nose and mouth, while being compact and offering a clear line of sight for patients. The mask is being launched first in the U.S., followed by Canada; a global launch is planned for September 2009.

Wireless Sensor Systems Enable A Better Sleep
Sleep disorder is a major health problem. 10% of the population of the U.S. is affected by sleep apneas, and 1 billion people worldwide experience some kind of chronic nasal congestion during sleep. IMEC's wireless sleep staging system which is light weight, wearable and miniaturized can drastically increase the comfort of sleep disorders tests.

Sleep Apnea Tips
Most people know that sleep apnea is a leading cause of death from heart attacks and strokes. However recent research has revealed that sleep apnea is a leading cause of death from many causes, even in people judged to be healthy. Researchers at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore revealed that men aged 40 to 70 with severe sleep apnea were twice as likely to die as men in the same age group who did not suffer from the disorder....

MSU Research: Sleep Helps Reduce Errors In Memory

2009-09-19T07:01:00.001-07:00

MSU Research: Sleep Helps Reduce Errors In Memory
Sleep may reduce mistakes in memory, according to a first-of-its-kind study led by a cognitive neuroscientist at Michigan State University. The findings, which appear in the September issue of the journal Learning & Memory, have practical implications for everyone from students flubbing multiple choice tests to senior citizens confusing their medications, said Kimberly Fenn, principal investigator and MSU assistant professor of psychology.

UCLA Scientist Ask 'Why Sleep?' Analysis Shows Snoozing Is A Strategy To Increase Efficiency, Minimize Risk
Bats, birds, box turtles, humans and many other animals share at least one thing in common: They sleep. Humans, in fact, spend roughly one-third of their lives asleep, but sleep researchers still don't know why. According to the journal Science, the function of sleep is one of the 125 greatest unsolved mysteries in science.

2-Way Communication Between Common Biological Pathways And Body's Daily Clock Revealed By Gene Screen
While scientists have known for several years that our body's internal clock helps regulate many biological processes, researchers have found that the reverse is also true: Many common biological processes - including insulin metabolism - regulate the clock, according to a new study by investigators at the University of Pennsylvania School of Medicine, the Genomics Institute of the Novartis Research Foundation, and the University of California at San Diego.

Association Between Chemotherapy For Breast Cancer And Disruption Of Sleep-Wake Rhythm In Women
A study in the Sept.1 issue of the journal Sleep shows that the sleep-wake activity rhythms of breast cancer patients are impaired during the administration of chemotherapy. Results indicate that the first cycle of chemotherapy is associated with a temporary disruption of these rhythms, while repeated administration of chemotherapy results in progressively worse and more enduring impairments.

Lack of Exercise = Lack of Sleep
Tommy sprawls on the couch, his eyes glued to the TV screen and the latest Spiderman movie. Shelly is curled up in the easy chair, her only movement her fingers on the controls of her Game Boy. It's a perfect summer day filled with golden sunshine and light breezes. Tommy should be outside playing baseball. On the sidewalk across the street, Shelly's friends are engaged in a game of hopscotch. But hey! Both the kids are quiet and...

WUSTL Research Finds Individual Cells Isolated From The Biological Clock Can Keep Daily Time, But Are Unreliable
Alexis Webb enters a small room at Washington University in St. Louis with walls, floor and ceiling painted dark green, shuts the door, turns off the lights and bends over a microscope in a black box draped with black cloth. Through the microscope, she can see a single nerve cell on a glass cover slip glowing dimly. The glow tells her the isolated nerve cell is busy keeping time. Webb, a graduate fellow in the Neuroscience Ph.D. Program, working with Erik Herzog, Ph.D.

Did Diprivan Lead to Michael Jackson's Death?
It's no surprise to hear that Michael Jackson suffered from insomnia. According to an Associated Press news release, he'd been plague with insomnia as far back as 1989 and the "Bad" tour. Sleep problems are common among celebrities, and, no matter your personal opinion of Michael Jackson, there's no doubt he was a celebrity - a super nova of the music world. Can you imagine the stress and pressure of most of life? Then add to that his...

Your Diet and Sleep
Sleep disorders of all kinds affect millions of people every day. However, facts concerning sleep and the disorders associated with sleep are not widely known to the public. The sad aspect to this subject, is that many doctors are not versed in sleep disorders as well. Much of the research that one may encounter has been compiled due to personal experiences or through a personal search for knowledge. If you feel that you cannot go through a day...

Sleep Paralysis Gets Screentime – But Not as a Horror Flick

2009-09-18T09:01:00.001-07:00

Sleep Paralysis Gets Screentime – But Not as a Horror Flick

Insomnia patients often prescribed antidepressants, not sleep meds
Almost 40 million Americans suffer from chronic insomnia, but new research suggests that doctors often prescribe antidepressants for the disorder instead of sleep meds.

Fido or Tabby Got Your Sleep?

Lack of Exercise = Lack of Sleep
Tommy sprawls on the couch, his eyes glued to the TV screen and the latest Spiderman movie. Shelly is curled up in the easy chair, her only movement her fingers on the controls of her Game Boy. It's a perfect summer day filled with golden sunshine and light breezes. Tommy should be outside playing baseball. On the sidewalk across the street, Shelly's friends are engaged in a game of hopscotch. But hey! Both the kids are quiet and...

The Sounds and Sleeplessness in the ICU (Part I)

Sleeplessness Worse for Women

Not Fit to Fly

What is Nocturia?

2009-09-17T18:01:00.001-07:00

I suffer from nocturia. It's believed that over two-thirds of people over 55 may also struggle with nocturia. They just aren't able to put a name to it. What is nocturia? Nocturia isn't actually a sleep disorder. A better description would be a sleep related problem. In simple words, nocturia is the need to get up to go to the bathroom to urinate several times a night. Having this happen once or twice a night is actually normal, but... Continue reading ...

In this blog, I am going to deal with a question that has stumped some of the most talented researchers in the world. That should hopefully get your attention- this vexing question seems simple, but represents the “holy grail” of biology. The question: why do we sleep? Consider this- we spend approximately one-third of lives doing it and scientists are still not quit sure why. (Much of this and future blogs on... Continue reading ...

In my previous blogs I have written about the importance of good sleep, but I don’t think we ever really explained the significance of sleep deprivation and the effects on society and the individual. I thought that it would be a good idea to go over some significant facts and figures to convince you of the importance of getting a good restful sleep and of the need to address sleep problems with your doctor.What is sleep deprivation?It is... Continue reading ...

In my last blog we began a discussion of seasonal affective disorder or SAD. We will pick up where we left off. There is actually some debate in the psychiatric community whether or not SAD is actually a separate diagnosis, apart from general depression. Those who claim it is not suggest that it is no more than a seasonal coincidence that occurs in someone with recurring episodes of depression. As support to this idea... Continue reading ...

Most people know that sleep apnea is a leading cause of death from heart attacks and strokes. However recent research has revealed that sleep apnea is a leading cause of death from many causes, even in people judged to be healthy. Researchers at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore revealed that men aged 40 to 70 with severe sleep apnea were twice as likely to die as men in the same age group who did not suffer from the disorder.... Continue reading ...

We started our discussion about restless legs syndrome (RLS) in my recent blog, so let’s continue where we left off. Mild symptoms of RLS occur in 5-15% of the general population, which makes it the second or third most common sleep disorder. Of these cases, only about 2-3% are considered clinically severe enough to require treatment. It appears to occur more commonly in females and can even affect children. Due... Continue reading ...

With the hectic lifestyles most of us lead these days, napping has become almost a way of life. Think naps are for sissies? Listen. Even the sports teams are getting into it. "A lot of things may change in the NHL," Scott Mellanby of the Atlanta Thrashers says, "but not naps. It's just a part of being a hockey player." One complaint from participants in the Olympics is sleep deprivation. With jet lag and getting used to... Continue reading ...

A recent news article states: "Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is associated with behavior problems in children with asthma, researchers have found." But behavior problems are often linked to any type of sleep disordered breathing. It was discovered that approximately a third of children with asthma also had sleep disordered breathing resulting from some form of sleep disorders. Those children had significantly worse behavior... Continue reading ...

Workplace Bullying Linked to Sleep Problems

2009-09-16T23:01:00.001-07:00

Title: Workplace Bullying Linked to Sleep Problems
Category: Health News
Created: 9/2/2009
Last Editorial Review: 9/2/2009 Complete news at...

Title: Health Tip: Can't Sleep?
Category: Health News
Created: 9/2/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 9/2/2009 Complete news at...

Title: Home Dialysis a Good Option for Kidney Disease Patients
Category: Health News
Created: 8/27/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 8/27/2009 Complete news at...

Title: Eat Late, Put on Weight?
Category: Health News
Created: 9/8/2009 10:09:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 9/8/2009 10:09:46 AM Complete news at...

Title: Soothe Back-to-School Anxiety, Teach Kids to Relax
Category: Health News
Created: 8/23/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 8/24/2009 Complete news at...

Title: Sleep Training Helps Ease Insomnia Tied to Arthritis
Category: Health News
Created: 8/20/2009 2:10:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 8/21/2009 Complete news at...

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is the most common treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Except for tracheotomy, it is also the most effective treatment for OSA. CPAP is basically a computerized air pump that delivers pressurized air through a hose and then through a nasal interface into the patient's throat. The pressurized air splints open the upper airways, preventing the airflow pauses (apneas) and airflow... Complete news at...

Title: Herbs: Toxicities And Drug Interactions
Category: Doctor's Views
Created: 11/22/1998 6:38:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 9/9/2009 Complete news at...

Moss Rehabilitation Research Institute Launches Largest Study To Date To Explore "Awakening" Effects Of Common Sleep Drug On Vegetative Patients

2009-09-16T04:01:00.001-07:00

Moss Rehabilitation Research Institute (MRRI), the research arm of MossRehab, one of the world's leading clinical rehabilitation centers, has launched an ambitious research study to investigate how the sleep drug zolpidem might restore consciousness for patients in the vegetative state. Continue reading ...

Title: Home Dialysis a Good Option for Kidney Disease Patients
Category: Health News
Created: 8/27/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 8/27/2009 Continue reading ...

According to the National Sleep Foundation (NSF), almost six out of ten Americans report having insomnia and sleep problems at least a few nights a week. Insomnia is defined as "An inability to fall asleep or remain asleep long enough to feel rested, especially when the problem continues over time." In an effort to combat this, as many as 25 percent of the people in the United States use medications to help them sleep. Continue reading ...

More than one third of photos in women's magazines depicted babies in unsafe sleep positions, according to a new study in Pediatrics. Additionally, the study found that two-thirds of sleep environments depicted in these magazines were also unsafe. Led by SIDS researchers Rachel Moon, MD, a pediatrician, and Brandi Joyner at Children's National Medical Center, the study analyzed pictures of sleeping infants in 24 magazines with wide circulation among 20- to 40-year-old women. Continue reading ...

You’ve all seen the ads. You might have even heard about the charges of “disease mongering” that have been bandied about, specifically about this disorder. We are going to start covering the topic of restless legs syndrome (RLS). (By the way, disease mongering is when someone with a financial interest in a disease, like a pharmaceutical company with an effective medicine, publicizes a disorder with the sole... Continue reading ...

Insomnia patients often prescribed antidepressants, not sleep meds

2009-09-15T12:01:00.001-07:00

Almost 40 million Americans suffer from chronic insomnia, but new research suggests that doctors often prescribe antidepressants for the disorder instead of sleep meds. Complete news at...

Title: Sleep Training Helps Ease Insomnia Tied to Arthritis
Category: Health News
Created: 8/20/2009 2:10:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 8/21/2009 Complete news at...

Title: Soothe Back-to-School Anxiety, Teach Kids to Relax
Category: Health News
Created: 8/23/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 8/24/2009 Complete news at...

Title: Nightly Snacking May Speed Weight Gain
Category: Health News
Created: 9/3/2009 12:10:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 9/4/2009 Complete news at...

Title: Herbs: Toxicities And Drug Interactions
Category: Doctor's Views
Created: 11/22/1998 6:38:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 9/9/2009 Complete news at...

George Dawes Green is an author of thrillers including, in 1995, "The Juror" and, in 2009, "Ravens." Writing, or any occupation where a person can set his own hours, is ideal for George Dawes Green, because he has a rare sleep disorder where his hours of sleeping and waking fall later every day. This is known as free-running circadian rhythm sleep disorder.This disorder is related to day and night,to light and darkness and it is... Complete news at...

A course of cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) may help insomnia patients get a better night's sleep, even long after the treatment ends. Complete news at...

Several studies have found that doctors treat patients differently depending on their race and body weight. Complete news at...

Sleep Disturbances And Workplace Bullying

2009-09-14T20:01:00.001-07:00

Nightly Snacking May Speed Weight Gain

2009-09-14T05:01:00.001-07:00

Nightly Snacking May Speed Weight Gain
Title: Nightly Snacking May Speed Weight Gain
Category: Health News
Created: 9/3/2009 12:10:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 9/4/2009

PMS vs. PMDD - Whats' the Scoop?
Title: PMS vs. PMDD - Whats' the Scoop?
Category: Doctor's Views
Created: 6/26/2001 5:05:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 9/10/2009

Sleep Training Helps Ease Insomnia Tied to Arthritis
Title: Sleep Training Helps Ease Insomnia Tied to Arthritis
Category: Health News
Created: 8/20/2009 2:10:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 8/21/2009

Eat Late, Put on Weight?
Title: Eat Late, Put on Weight?
Category: Health News
Created: 9/8/2009 10:09:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 9/8/2009 10:09:46 AM

Secondary Insomnia and the Drugs Used To Treat It
I previously posted about the diagnosis of insomnia, the difference between primary and secondary/comorbid insomnia, and the importance of evaluating for and treating any underlying causes of insomnia. I encourage you to read my Secondary Insomnia post before reading any more of this post. Today I will be talking more about medication treatment options for secondary (comorbid) insomnia. Although persons with primary insomnia (insomnia not...

School Days Give Some Kids a Headache
Title: School Days Give Some Kids a Headache
Category: Health News
Created: 9/3/2009 4:10:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 9/4/2009

Home Dialysis a Good Option for Kidney Disease Patients
Title: Home Dialysis a Good Option for Kidney Disease Patients
Category: Health News
Created: 8/27/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 8/27/2009

Diet and Sleep Part Two

2009-09-13T14:01:00.001-07:00

Diet and Sleep Part Two
You are what you eat I can hear you saying, "Okay... now I have to watch what I eat and when I eat it... but now you are going to limit my fluids?" No! However, there are certain factors that should be kept in mind when drinking any type of fluids. One troublesome item is caffeine. Caffeine interferes with sleep with most people. Caffeine can also become an addiction... so watching our intake should be...

Doctors judge patients by their looks, studies show
Several studies have found that doctors treat patients differently depending on their race and body weight.

What is Nocturia?
I suffer from nocturia. It's believed that over two-thirds of people over 55 may also struggle with nocturia. They just aren't able to put a name to it. What is nocturia? Nocturia isn't actually a sleep disorder. A better description would be a sleep related problem. In simple words, nocturia is the need to get up to go to the bathroom to urinate several times a night. Having this happen once or twice a night is actually normal, but...

Napping for your Health
With the hectic lifestyles most of us lead these days, napping has become almost a way of life. Think naps are for sissies? Listen. Even the sports teams are getting into it. "A lot of things may change in the NHL," Scott Mellanby of the Atlanta Thrashers says, "but not naps. It's just a part of being a hockey player." One complaint from participants in the Olympics is sleep deprivation. With jet lag and getting used to...

Sleep training helps insomnia in arthritis patients
According to a new study, a type of therapy known as cognitive behavior therapy may ease pain and sleep problems in older people who suffer from both arthritis and insomnia.

Stormy Weather, Stormy Sleep

2009-09-12T18:01:00.001-07:00

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You’ve all seen the ads. You might have even heard about the charges of “disease mongering” that have been bandied about, specifically about this disorder. We are going to start covering the topic of restless legs syndrome (RLS). (By the way, disease mongering is when someone with a financial interest in a disease, like a pharmaceutical company with an effective medicine, publicizes a disorder with the sole... More at...

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We finished the last blog in mid-thought. We were talking about REM sleep and the idea of brain plasticity- the rewiring of our brains that take place when we learn new information. A recent study in rats showed that 4 days of REM sleep deprivation decreased the amount of new cells in the part of the brain that is associated with long-term memory, in other words they did not make those new circuits. Another study with... More at...

Secondary Causes of Insomnia

2009-09-12T01:01:00.001-07:00

Off to College - Probably Not Off to Sleep: Part 2

2009-09-11T09:01:00.001-07:00

Off to College - Probably Not Off to Sleep: Part 2

Naps Are Exercise for the Brain

Do You Recognize Me?

Off to College - Probably Not Off to Sleep: Part I

Moms: A New School Year Can Spell Sleep Relief (or Not)

Home Dialysis a Good Option for Kidney Disease Patients

2009-09-10T18:01:00.001-07:00

Title: Home Dialysis a Good Option for Kidney Disease Patients
Category: Health News
Created: 8/27/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 8/27/2009 More at...

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Title: Bed Bugs
Category: Diseases and Conditions
Created: 3/27/2006
Last Editorial Review: 8/18/2009 More at...

Title: Teen Athletes Sleep Better Than Couch Potatoes
Category: Health News
Created: 8/20/2009 4:10:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 8/21/2009 More at...

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Off to College - Probably Not Off to Sleep: Part 2

2009-09-09T21:01:00.001-07:00

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Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is the most common treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Except for tracheotomy, it is also the most effective treatment for OSA. CPAP is basically a computerized air pump that delivers pressurized air through a hose and then through a nasal interface into the patient's throat. The pressurized air splints open the upper airways, preventing the airflow pauses (apneas) and airflow... More at...

More at...

More at...

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Napping for your Health

2009-09-09T04:01:00.001-07:00

Napping for your Health
With the hectic lifestyles most of us lead these days, napping has become almost a way of life. Think naps are for sissies? Listen. Even the sports teams are getting into it. "A lot of things may change in the NHL," Scott Mellanby of the Atlanta Thrashers says, "but not naps. It's just a part of being a hockey player." One complaint from participants in the Olympics is sleep deprivation. With jet lag and getting used to...

Behavior and Childhood Sleep Disorders
A recent news article states: "Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is associated with behavior problems in children with asthma, researchers have found." But behavior problems are often linked to any type of sleep disordered breathing. It was discovered that approximately a third of children with asthma also had sleep disordered breathing resulting from some form of sleep disorders. Those children had significantly worse behavior...

Bugs, Bugs, Bugs
It's annoying for anyone to have a buzzing mosquito flying around the room. They land for an instant, never long enough to swat them, but just enough to arouse, then off they go again for another circle of the room. This is not only irritating to a child but can be downright frightening. To help keep mosquitoes and other flying insects out of the house, make sure doors are closed quickly. Don't stand and chat with a neighbor with the...

Workplace Bullying Linked to Sleep Problems
Title: Workplace Bullying Linked to Sleep Problems
Category: Health News
Created: 9/2/2009
Last Editorial Review: 9/2/2009

Did Diprivan Lead to Michael Jackson's Death?
It's no surprise to hear that Michael Jackson suffered from insomnia. According to an Associated Press news release, he'd been plague with insomnia as far back as 1989 and the "Bad" tour. Sleep problems are common among celebrities, and, no matter your personal opinion of Michael Jackson, there's no doubt he was a celebrity - a super nova of the music world. Can you imagine the stress and pressure of most of life? Then add to that his...

Diet and Sleep Part Two
You are what you eat I can hear you saying, "Okay... now I have to watch what I eat and when I eat it... but now you are going to limit my fluids?" No! However, there are certain factors that should be kept in mind when drinking any type of fluids. One troublesome item is caffeine. Caffeine interferes with sleep with most people. Caffeine can also become an addiction... so watching our intake should be...

Surgeon General choice will put primary care at the forefront

2009-09-08T09:01:00.001-07:00

Surgeon General choice will put primary care at the forefront
Dr. Regina Benjamin, President Obama's choice for Surgeon General, puts the face of primary care at the forefront of the Obama administration's healthcare reform efforts, experts say.

Behavior and Childhood Sleep Disorders
A recent news article states: "Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is associated with behavior problems in children with asthma, researchers have found." But behavior problems are often linked to any type of sleep disordered breathing. It was discovered that approximately a third of children with asthma also had sleep disordered breathing resulting from some form of sleep disorders. Those children had significantly worse behavior...

Drugmakers pour $40 million into healthcare reform debate
Statistics show that the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA), a lobbying group that represents 32 brandname drug companies, and its member companies have spent $40 million lobbying Congress as the lawmakers work to overhaul the U.S. healthcare system.

Sleep Apnea Tips
Most people know that sleep apnea is a leading cause of death from heart attacks and strokes. However recent research has revealed that sleep apnea is a leading cause of death from many causes, even in people judged to be healthy. Researchers at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore revealed that men aged 40 to 70 with severe sleep apnea were twice as likely to die as men in the same age group who did not suffer from the disorder....

Vitamins and herbs that can harm you
Natural remedies such as St. John's wort and fish oil can cause harm if taken in the wrong doses or in conjunction with other drugs, experts say.

AMA backs House healthcare reform bill
The American Medical Association (AMA) is urging approval for healthcare overhaul legislation currently moving through committees in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Bugs, Bugs, Bugs
It's annoying for anyone to have a buzzing mosquito flying around the room. They land for an instant, never long enough to swat them, but just enough to arouse, then off they go again for another circle of the room. This is not only irritating to a child but can be downright frightening. To help keep mosquitoes and other flying insects out of the house, make sure doors are closed quickly. Don't stand and chat with a neighbor with the...

Moss Rehabilitation Research Institute Launches Largest Study To Date To Explore "Awakening" Effects Of Common Sleep Drug On Vegetative Patients

2009-09-07T16:01:00.001-07:00

Moss Rehabilitation Research Institute (MRRI), the research arm of MossRehab, one of the world's leading clinical rehabilitation centers, has launched an ambitious research study to investigate how the sleep drug zolpidem might restore consciousness for patients in the vegetative state. Read more ...

A study in the Sept.1 issue of the journal SLEEP shows that current or past exposure to workplace bullying is associated with increased sleep disturbances. Associations also were found between observed bullying and sleep disruption, indicating that bullying has detrimental effects even when it is experienced indirectly. Read more ...

Scientists have discovered the first gene involved in regulating the optimal length of human sleep, offering a window into a key aspect of slumber, an enigmatic phenomenon that is critical to human physical and mental health. The team, reporting in the Aug. Read more ...

More than one third of photos in women's magazines depicted babies in unsafe sleep positions, according to a new study in Pediatrics. Additionally, the study found that two-thirds of sleep environments depicted in these magazines were also unsafe. Led by SIDS researchers Rachel Moon, MD, a pediatrician, and Brandi Joyner at Children's National Medical Center, the study analyzed pictures of sleeping infants in 24 magazines with wide circulation among 20- to 40-year-old women. Read more ...

Read more ...

Professor Chris French, has co-authored a paper on sleep paralysis with Julia Santomauro, both of the Anomalistic Psychology Research Unit at Goldsmiths, University of London, which is published in Issue 22 (August 2009) of The Psychologist. Read more ...

Sleep Disturbances And Workplace Bullying

2009-09-06T22:01:00.001-07:00

Sleep Disturbances And Workplace Bullying
A study in the Sept.1 issue of the journal SLEEP shows that current or past exposure to workplace bullying is associated with increased sleep disturbances. Associations also were found between observed bullying and sleep disruption, indicating that bullying has detrimental effects even when it is experienced indirectly.

Sleep Deprivation 101: What You Should Know
In my previous blogs I have written about the importance of good sleep, but I don’t think we ever really explained the significance of sleep deprivation and the effects on society and the individual. I thought that it would be a good idea to go over some significant facts and figures to convince you of the importance of getting a good restful sleep and of the need to address sleep problems with your doctor.What is sleep deprivation?It is...

Association Between Chemotherapy For Breast Cancer And Disruption Of Sleep-Wake Rhythm In Women
A study in the Sept.1 issue of the journal Sleep shows that the sleep-wake activity rhythms of breast cancer patients are impaired during the administration of chemotherapy. Results indicate that the first cycle of chemotherapy is associated with a temporary disruption of these rhythms, while repeated administration of chemotherapy results in progressively worse and more enduring impairments.

Alzheimer's Society Comment On Longer Sleep Duration Being Associated With An Increased Risk Of Dementia
Older people who reported sleeping for more than nine hours in each 24 hours and feeling sleepy during the day were more likely to develop dementia according to new research The study of more than 3,000 people in Spain investigated the correlation between sleep patterns and the development of dementia over a three year period.

Moss Rehabilitation Research Institute Launches Largest Study To Date To Explore "Awakening" Effects Of Common Sleep Drug On Vegetative Patients
Moss Rehabilitation Research Institute (MRRI), the research arm of MossRehab, one of the world's leading clinical rehabilitation centers, has launched an ambitious research study to investigate how the sleep drug zolpidem might restore consciousness for patients in the vegetative state.

UCLA Scientist Ask 'Why Sleep?' Analysis Shows Snoozing Is A Strategy To Increase Efficiency, Minimize Risk
Bats, birds, box turtles, humans and many other animals share at least one thing in common: They sleep. Humans, in fact, spend roughly one-third of their lives asleep, but sleep researchers still don't know why. According to the journal Science, the function of sleep is one of the 125 greatest unsolved mysteries in science.

Sleep Apnea Tips
Most people know that sleep apnea is a leading cause of death from heart attacks and strokes. However recent research has revealed that sleep apnea is a leading cause of death from many causes, even in people judged to be healthy. Researchers at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore revealed that men aged 40 to 70 with severe sleep apnea were twice as likely to die as men in the same age group who did not suffer from the disorder....

Alzheimer's Society Comment On Longer Sleep Duration Being Associated With An Increased Risk Of Dementia

2009-09-06T03:01:00.001-07:00

Alzheimer's Society Comment On Longer Sleep Duration Being Associated With An Increased Risk Of Dementia
Older people who reported sleeping for more than nine hours in each 24 hours and feeling sleepy during the day were more likely to develop dementia according to new research The study of more than 3,000 people in Spain investigated the correlation between sleep patterns and the development of dementia over a three year period.

AMA backs House healthcare reform bill
The American Medical Association (AMA) is urging approval for healthcare overhaul legislation currently moving through committees in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Drugmakers pour $40 million into healthcare reform debate
Statistics show that the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA), a lobbying group that represents 32 brandname drug companies, and its member companies have spent $40 million lobbying Congress as the lawmakers work to overhaul the U.S. healthcare system.

Moss Rehabilitation Research Institute Launches Largest Study To Date To Explore "Awakening" Effects Of Common Sleep Drug On Vegetative Patients
Moss Rehabilitation Research Institute (MRRI), the research arm of MossRehab, one of the world's leading clinical rehabilitation centers, has launched an ambitious research study to investigate how the sleep drug zolpidem might restore consciousness for patients in the vegetative state.

The unsolved mystery of sleep
Despite the fact that humans will spend roughly one-third of their lives asleep, scientists still don't know why we do it.

Ever Experienced The Terror Of Sleep Paralysis?
Professor Chris French, has co-authored a paper on sleep paralysis with Julia Santomauro, both of the Anomalistic Psychology Research Unit at Goldsmiths, University of London, which is published in Issue 22 (August 2009) of The Psychologist.

Improving Sleep And Pain In People With Osteoarthritis Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
A study in the Aug. 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine shows that the use of cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) is an effective treatment for older patients with osteoarthritis and comorbid insomnia. Results showed that treatment improves both immediate and long-term self-reported sleep and pain in older patients with osteoarthritis and comorbid insomnia without directly addressing pain control.

Sleep disorder may lead to bad behavior in asthmatic kids

2009-09-05T12:01:00.001-07:00

Sleep disorder may lead to bad behavior in asthmatic kids
Kids with asthma who have sleep disordered breathing (SDB) at night may exhibit behavior problems, a new study has found.

Improving Sleep And Pain In People With Osteoarthritis Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
A study in the Aug. 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine shows that the use of cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) is an effective treatment for older patients with osteoarthritis and comorbid insomnia. Results showed that treatment improves both immediate and long-term self-reported sleep and pain in older patients with osteoarthritis and comorbid insomnia without directly addressing pain control.

How Well Do You Sleep At Night? Visit The New Online Aviisha Medical Wellness Institute To Find Out
Nearly 20 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea, a serious health condition that has been linked to increased risks for obesity and weight gain, heart attack, stroke, high blood pressure, asthma and depression. Sleep apnea has also been cited by experts as the number one cause of car accidents. Ninety-five percent of sleep apnea cases go undiagnosed, putting the health of millions of Americans at risk.

Do Not Try This at Home

Sleep Disturbances And Workplace Bullying
A study in the Sept.1 issue of the journal SLEEP shows that current or past exposure to workplace bullying is associated with increased sleep disturbances. Associations also were found between observed bullying and sleep disruption, indicating that bullying has detrimental effects even when it is experienced indirectly.

Images In Women's Magasines Show Babies In Positions That Increase Risk Of SIDS
More than one third of photos in women's magazines depicted babies in unsafe sleep positions, according to a new study in Pediatrics. Additionally, the study found that two-thirds of sleep environments depicted in these magazines were also unsafe. Led by SIDS researchers Rachel Moon, MD, a pediatrician, and Brandi Joyner at Children's National Medical Center, the study analyzed pictures of sleeping infants in 24 magazines with wide circulation among 20- to 40-year-old women.

Caffeine vs Napping

2009-09-04T15:01:00.001-07:00

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Sleep disorders of all kinds affect millions of people every day. However, facts concerning sleep and the disorders associated with sleep are not widely known to the public. The sad aspect to this subject, is that many doctors are not versed in sleep disorders as well. Much of the research that one may encounter has been compiled due to personal experiences or through a personal search for knowledge. If you feel that you cannot go through a day... More at...

A recent news article states: "Sleep-disordered breathing (SDB) is associated with behavior problems in children with asthma, researchers have found." But behavior problems are often linked to any type of sleep disordered breathing. It was discovered that approximately a third of children with asthma also had sleep disordered breathing resulting from some form of sleep disorders. Those children had significantly worse behavior... More at...

With the hectic lifestyles most of us lead these days, napping has become almost a way of life. Think naps are for sissies? Listen. Even the sports teams are getting into it. "A lot of things may change in the NHL," Scott Mellanby of the Atlanta Thrashers says, "but not naps. It's just a part of being a hockey player." One complaint from participants in the Olympics is sleep deprivation. With jet lag and getting used to... More at...

Title: Nightly Snacking May Speed Weight Gain
Category: Health News
Created: 9/3/2009 12:10:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 9/4/2009 More at...

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Sleep Apnea Tips

2009-09-03T22:01:00.001-07:00

Most people know that sleep apnea is a leading cause of death from heart attacks and strokes. However recent research has revealed that sleep apnea is a leading cause of death from many causes, even in people judged to be healthy. Researchers at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore revealed that men aged 40 to 70 with severe sleep apnea were twice as likely to die as men in the same age group who did not suffer from the disorder.... Complete news at...

You are what you eat I can hear you saying, "Okay... now I have to watch what I eat and when I eat it... but now you are going to limit my fluids?" No! However, there are certain factors that should be kept in mind when drinking any type of fluids. One troublesome item is caffeine. Caffeine interferes with sleep with most people. Caffeine can also become an addiction... so watching our intake should be... Complete news at...

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is the most common treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Except for tracheotomy, it is also the most effective treatment for OSA. CPAP is basically a computerized air pump that delivers pressurized air through a hose and then through a nasal interface into the patient's throat. The pressurized air splints open the upper airways, preventing the airflow pauses (apneas) and airflow... Complete news at...

A lucky few can get by just fine on six hours of sleep, and a new study suggests a genetic mutation might help explain why. Complete news at...

Despite the fact that humans will spend roughly one-third of their lives asleep, scientists still don't know why we do it. Complete news at...

I previously posted about the diagnosis of insomnia, the difference between primary and secondary/comorbid insomnia, and the importance of evaluating for and treating any underlying causes of insomnia. I encourage you to read my Secondary Insomnia post before reading any more of this post. Today I will be talking more about medication treatment options for secondary (comorbid) insomnia. Although persons with primary insomnia (insomnia not... Complete news at...

It's no surprise to hear that Michael Jackson suffered from insomnia. According to an Associated Press news release, he'd been plague with insomnia as far back as 1989 and the "Bad" tour. Sleep problems are common among celebrities, and, no matter your personal opinion of Michael Jackson, there's no doubt he was a celebrity - a super nova of the music world. Can you imagine the stress and pressure of most of life? Then add to that his... Complete news at...

A new software that uses quizzes, stories, and games may help people who suffer from insomnia, experts say. Complete news at...

The unsolved mystery of sleep

2009-09-03T04:01:00.001-07:00

The unsolved mystery of sleep
Despite the fact that humans will spend roughly one-third of their lives asleep, scientists still don't know why we do it.

International Travel Health Guidebook Gets Updated
Title: International Travel Health Guidebook Gets Updated
Category: Health News
Created: 8/15/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 8/17/2009

Sleep training helps insomnia in arthritis patients
According to a new study, a type of therapy known as cognitive behavior therapy may ease pain and sleep problems in older people who suffer from both arthritis and insomnia.

Diet and Sleep Part Two
You are what you eat I can hear you saying, "Okay... now I have to watch what I eat and when I eat it... but now you are going to limit my fluids?" No! However, there are certain factors that should be kept in mind when drinking any type of fluids. One troublesome item is caffeine. Caffeine interferes with sleep with most people. Caffeine can also become an addiction... so watching our intake should be...

Reid: No healthcare vote until after August recess
Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid says there will be no vote on healthcare reform before Congress takes its August break, a move that would go against President Obama's announced timetable for its vote.

Sleep Training Helps Ease Insomnia Tied to Arthritis
Title: Sleep Training Helps Ease Insomnia Tied to Arthritis
Category: Health News
Created: 8/20/2009 2:10:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 8/21/2009

Charging medical bills a risky business
Unemployment rates are climbing and medical bills are mounting, forcing many American to pay their medical bills with credit cards.

Improving Sleep And Pain In People With Osteoarthritis Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy

2009-09-02T08:01:00.001-07:00

Improving Sleep And Pain In People With Osteoarthritis Using Cognitive Behavioral Therapy
A study in the Aug. 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine shows that the use of cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) is an effective treatment for older patients with osteoarthritis and comorbid insomnia. Results showed that treatment improves both immediate and long-term self-reported sleep and pain in older patients with osteoarthritis and comorbid insomnia without directly addressing pain control.

Did Diprivan Lead to Michael Jackson's Death?
It's no surprise to hear that Michael Jackson suffered from insomnia. According to an Associated Press news release, he'd been plague with insomnia as far back as 1989 and the "Bad" tour. Sleep problems are common among celebrities, and, no matter your personal opinion of Michael Jackson, there's no doubt he was a celebrity - a super nova of the music world. Can you imagine the stress and pressure of most of life? Then add to that his...

Latest Research On Hearing Loss, Allergies, Sleep Disorders, And Head And Neck Cancer At American Academy Of Otolaryngology Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO
The 2009 Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO of the American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery Foundation (AAO-HNSF), the largest meeting of ear, nose, and throat doctors in the world, will convene October 4 - 7, 2009, in San Diego, CA. Featuring more than 250 scientific research sessions, 300 posters, and several hundred instruction course hours for attendees, the annual meeting covers breaking science and medical news.

Association Between Chemotherapy For Breast Cancer And Disruption Of Sleep-Wake Rhythm In Women
A study in the Sept.1 issue of the journal Sleep shows that the sleep-wake activity rhythms of breast cancer patients are impaired during the administration of chemotherapy. Results indicate that the first cycle of chemotherapy is associated with a temporary disruption of these rhythms, while repeated administration of chemotherapy results in progressively worse and more enduring impairments.

Moss Rehabilitation Research Institute Launches Largest Study To Date To Explore "Awakening" Effects Of Common Sleep Drug On Vegetative Patients
Moss Rehabilitation Research Institute (MRRI), the research arm of MossRehab, one of the world's leading clinical rehabilitation centers, has launched an ambitious research study to investigate how the sleep drug zolpidem might restore consciousness for patients in the vegetative state.

Obstructive Sleep Apnea Is Prevalent In Adults With Down Syndrome

2009-09-01T17:01:00.001-07:00

A study in the Aug. 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine shows that adults with Down syndrome also frequently suffer from obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). However, complications of untreated OSA such as cardiovascular disease, daytime sleepiness and impaired cognitive functioning overlap with the manifestations of Down syndrome; therefore, OSA may not be detected. More at...

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is the most common treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Except for tracheotomy, it is also the most effective treatment for OSA. CPAP is basically a computerized air pump that delivers pressurized air through a hose and then through a nasal interface into the patient's throat. The pressurized air splints open the upper airways, preventing the airflow pauses (apneas) and airflow... More at...

More at...

Nightly bouts of interrupted, oxygen-deprived sleep from a collapsed airway in the upper neck raises the chances of dying in middle-aged to elderly people by as much as 46 percent in the most severe cases, according to a landmark study on sleep apnea by lung experts at Johns Hopkins and six other U.S. medical centers. More at...

The 2009 Annual Meeting & OTO EXPO of the American Academy of Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery Foundation (AAO-HNSF), the largest meeting of ear, nose, and throat doctors in the world, will convene October 4 - 7, 2009, in San Diego, CA. Featuring more than 250 scientific research sessions, 300 posters, and several hundred instruction course hours for attendees, the annual meeting covers breaking science and medical news. More at...

More at...

Association Between Subjective Symptoms Of Sleep Quality, Daytime Sleepiness And Declining Quality Of Life

2009-09-01T02:01:00.001-07:00

Association Between Subjective Symptoms Of Sleep Quality, Daytime Sleepiness And Declining Quality Of Life
A study, "Longitudinal Evaluation of Sleep-Disordered Breathing and Sleep Symptoms with Change in Quality of Life: The Sleep Heart Health Study (SHHS)," in the Aug. 1 issue of the journal Sleep indicates that self-reported worsening in initiating and maintaining sleep over a five-year period was significantly associated with poorer mental quality of life, and increasing daytime sleepiness symptoms were associated with both poorer physical and mental quality of life.

Severe Breathing Disorders During Sleep Are Associated With An Increased Risk Of Dying
Severe breathing disorders during sleep are associated with an increased risk of dying from any cause according to research published this week in the open access journal PLoS Medicine. The study finds that the increased risk of dying is most apparent in men between 40 and 70 years of age with severe sleep-disordered breathing, and suggests a specific link between this condition and death from coronary heart disease in men.

Philips Introduces New, Advanced Portable Recording Device For Diagnostic Assessment Of Cardio-respiratory Sleep Disorders
Royal Philips Electronics (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHI) announced the release of the Alice PDx Portable Sleep System. The Alice PDx is a diagnostic recording device with advanced features intended for Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) diagnosis and follow-up, and the diagnostic assessment of cardio-respiratory sleep disorders.

Alzheimer's Society Comment On Longer Sleep Duration Being Associated With An Increased Risk Of Dementia
Older people who reported sleeping for more than nine hours in each 24 hours and feeling sleepy during the day were more likely to develop dementia according to new research The study of more than 3,000 people in Spain investigated the correlation between sleep patterns and the development of dementia over a three year period.

Not Fit to Fly

Something New in Melatonin?

Sleeplessness Worse for Women

Discovery Of Increased 'Sibling Risk' Of Obstructive Sleep Apnea In Children
A study, "Sibling risk of Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome and Adenotonsillar Hypertrophy," in the Aug. 1 issue of the journal SLEEP indicates that children have an increased risk of developing obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) if they have at least one sibling who has been diagnosed with the sleep disorder.

Sleeplessness Worse for Women

2009-08-31T09:01:00.001-07:00

Sleeplessness Worse for Women

Adolescents Are Losing Sleep Over "It"

Sleep Apnea Raises Risk of Death, Especially for Men: Report
Title: Sleep Apnea Raises Risk of Death, Especially for Men: Report
Category: Health News
Created: 8/18/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 8/18/2009

Tips for Sleepless Mariah Carey

Secrets of Sound Sleepers

Health Tip: Back to School, Back to Sleep
Title: Health Tip: Back to School, Back to Sleep
Category: Health News
Created: 8/14/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 8/14/2009 8:10:00 AM

Sleep Training Helps Ease Insomnia Tied to Arthritis
Title: Sleep Training Helps Ease Insomnia Tied to Arthritis
Category: Health News
Created: 8/20/2009 2:10:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 8/21/2009

Gene Cuts Need for Sleep
Title: Gene Cuts Need for Sleep
Category: Health News
Created: 8/14/2009
Last Editorial Review: 8/14/2009

UCLA Scientist Ask 'Why Sleep?' Analysis Shows Snoozing Is A Strategy To Increase Efficiency, Minimize Risk

2009-08-30T16:01:00.001-07:00

UCLA Scientist Ask 'Why Sleep?' Analysis Shows Snoozing Is A Strategy To Increase Efficiency, Minimize Risk
Bats, birds, box turtles, humans and many other animals share at least one thing in common: They sleep. Humans, in fact, spend roughly one-third of their lives asleep, but sleep researchers still don't know why. According to the journal Science, the function of sleep is one of the 125 greatest unsolved mysteries in science.

UC Researchers Uncover Which Gender Is Losing Sleep
Even with growing progress toward gender equality in the workplace, women continue to carry the most responsibility for family care, a load that according to a new study could indicate why women report more sleep disruption than men. The research led by David Maume, a University of Cincinnati professor of sociology and director of the UC Kunz Center for Research in Work, Family and Gender, UC graduate student Rachel A. Sebastian and Miami University (Ohio) graduate student Anthony R.

How Well Do You Sleep At Night? Visit The New Online Aviisha Medical Wellness Institute To Find Out
Nearly 20 million Americans suffer from sleep apnea, a serious health condition that has been linked to increased risks for obesity and weight gain, heart attack, stroke, high blood pressure, asthma and depression. Sleep apnea has also been cited by experts as the number one cause of car accidents. Ninety-five percent of sleep apnea cases go undiagnosed, putting the health of millions of Americans at risk.

Back To School Stories: Sleep To STDs, Phobias To Rx Meds
Starting or returning to school can stir up a bevy of emotions with a range of effects, from bothersome to debilitating. Knowing a little bit about a few of these problems helps parents and children manage and overcome them. School phobia extreme anxiety from going to school or even talking about it. Causes could range from being bullied to grieving for a lost pet.

Diagnosing Restless Leg Syndrome
You’ve all seen the ads. You might have even heard about the charges of “disease mongering” that have been bandied about, specifically about this disorder. We are going to start covering the topic of restless legs syndrome (RLS). (By the way, disease mongering is when someone with a financial interest in a disease, like a pharmaceutical company with an effective medicine, publicizes a disorder with the sole...

Causes and Symptoms of Restless Leg Syndrome
We started our discussion about restless legs syndrome (RLS) in my recent blog, so let’s continue where we left off. Mild symptoms of RLS occur in 5-15% of the general population, which makes it the second or third most common sleep disorder. Of these cases, only about 2-3% are considered clinically severe enough to require treatment. It appears to occur more commonly in females and can even affect children. Due...

Memory, Brain Function, and REM Sleep: Are They Related?

2009-08-29T22:01:00.001-07:00

In my last blog we discussed at length the different stages of sleep, namely non-REM and REM, the biological need for sleep to stay alive, and started discussing what some researchers believe may be the function of some portions of non-REM sleep. We reviewed how there is some evidence linking declarative memory (memory of facts and figures) to slow wave sleep and procedural memory (the ability to perform tasks like riding a bike or playing... More at...

Despite mounting public health concerns about obesity and persistent social pressures dictating that slim is beautiful, young women in their '20s consistently exercise less than young men. And young black women showed significant declines in exercise between 1984 and 2006, according to a University of Michigan study to be published in the October issue of the American Journal of Public Health. More at...

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is an effective treatment for most cases of primary insomnia, and for selected cases of secondary insomnia. There are a variety of behavioral and psychological treatments that comprise CBT-I, including stimulus control therapy, relaxation training, biofeedback, paradoxical intention, sleep restriction therapy, sleep hygiene education, and cognitive therapy. Usually several of these treatments are... More at...

A study, "Sibling risk of Pediatric Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome and Adenotonsillar Hypertrophy," in the Aug. 1 issue of the journal SLEEP indicates that children have an increased risk of developing obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) if they have at least one sibling who has been diagnosed with the sleep disorder. More at...

I previously posted about the diagnosis of insomnia, the difference between primary and secondary/comorbid insomnia, and the importance of evaluating for and treating any underlying causes of insomnia. I encourage you to read my Secondary Insomnia post before reading any more of this post. Today I will be talking more about medication treatment options for secondary (comorbid) insomnia. Although persons with primary insomnia (insomnia not... More at...

International Travel Health Guidebook Gets Updated

2009-08-29T04:01:00.001-07:00

International Travel Health Guidebook Gets Updated
Title: International Travel Health Guidebook Gets Updated
Category: Health News
Created: 8/15/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 8/17/2009

Behavioral Therapy for Pain and Insomnia
Title: Behavioral Therapy for Pain and Insomnia
Category: Health News
Created: 8/17/2009
Last Editorial Review: 8/17/2009

Sleep Training Helps Ease Insomnia Tied to Arthritis
Title: Sleep Training Helps Ease Insomnia Tied to Arthritis
Category: Health News
Created: 8/20/2009 2:10:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 8/21/2009

Health Tip: Stay Awake on the Road
Title: Health Tip: Stay Awake on the Road
Category: Health News
Created: 8/17/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 8/17/2009

Sleep Apnea Raises Risk of Death, Especially for Men: Report
Title: Sleep Apnea Raises Risk of Death, Especially for Men: Report
Category: Health News
Created: 8/18/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 8/18/2009

Health Tip: Back to School, Back to Sleep
Title: Health Tip: Back to School, Back to Sleep
Category: Health News
Created: 8/14/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 8/14/2009 8:10:00 AM

Did Diprivan Lead to Michael Jackson's Death?

2009-08-28T10:01:00.001-07:00

Health Tip: Recognize the Signs of Drowsy Driving

2009-08-27T17:01:00.001-07:00

Health Tip: Recognize the Signs of Drowsy Driving
Title: Health Tip: Recognize the Signs of Drowsy Driving
Category: Health News
Created: 8/18/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 8/18/2009

Bed Bugs
Title: Bed Bugs
Category: Diseases and Conditions
Created: 3/27/2006
Last Editorial Review: 8/18/2009

Do Not Try This at Home

Fido or Tabby Got Your Sleep?

Mattress Money Stasher Throws Out a Million!

Behavioral Therapy for Pain and Insomnia
Title: Behavioral Therapy for Pain and Insomnia
Category: Health News
Created: 8/17/2009
Last Editorial Review: 8/17/2009

Teen Athletes Sleep Better Than Couch Potatoes
Title: Teen Athletes Sleep Better Than Couch Potatoes
Category: Health News
Created: 8/20/2009 4:10:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 8/21/2009

The unsolved mystery of sleep

2009-08-27T02:01:00.001-07:00

The unsolved mystery of sleep
Despite the fact that humans will spend roughly one-third of their lives asleep, scientists still don't know why we do it.

Drugmakers pour $40 million into healthcare reform debate
Statistics show that the Pharmaceutical Research and Manufacturers of America (PhRMA), a lobbying group that represents 32 brandname drug companies, and its member companies have spent $40 million lobbying Congress as the lawmakers work to overhaul the U.S. healthcare system.

4 things you should know about the healthcare reform bill
Dr. Bernadine Healy gives four things that you and your representatives in Washington should know about the healthcare reform bill known as H.R. 3200.

Sleep training helps insomnia in arthritis patients
According to a new study, a type of therapy known as cognitive behavior therapy may ease pain and sleep problems in older people who suffer from both arthritis and insomnia.

AMA backs House healthcare reform bill
The American Medical Association (AMA) is urging approval for healthcare overhaul legislation currently moving through committees in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Internet-based therapy may treat insomnia
A new software that uses quizzes, stories, and games may help people who suffer from insomnia, experts say.

Doctors judge patients by their looks, studies show
Several studies have found that doctors treat patients differently depending on their race and body weight.

Gene may explain how some function on little sleep
A lucky few can get by just fine on six hours of sleep, and a new study suggests a genetic mutation might help explain why.

Sleep disorder may lead to bad behavior in asthmatic kids

2009-08-26T09:01:00.001-07:00

Sleep disorder may lead to bad behavior in asthmatic kids
Kids with asthma who have sleep disordered breathing (SDB) at night may exhibit behavior problems, a new study has found.

Charging medical bills a risky business
Unemployment rates are climbing and medical bills are mounting, forcing many American to pay their medical bills with credit cards.

Obese Children and Sleep Disordered Breathing
Childhood obesity is on the rise, and along with the obesity comes other problems --- heart disease, type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure. Another problem, long thought to be a disorder of older, overweight males, is sleep apnea. A study published in the June issue of the journal sleep reveals that obese children are as much at risk of developing sleep apnea as obese adults. The risk factor is based on waist circumference and BMI...

The unsolved mystery of sleep
Despite the fact that humans will spend roughly one-third of their lives asleep, scientists still don't know why we do it.

Insomnia patients often prescribed antidepressants, not sleep meds
Almost 40 million Americans suffer from chronic insomnia, but new research suggests that doctors often prescribe antidepressants for the disorder instead of sleep meds.

Gene may explain how some function on little sleep
A lucky few can get by just fine on six hours of sleep, and a new study suggests a genetic mutation might help explain why.

Teen Athletes Sleep Better Than Couch Potatoes

2009-08-25T17:01:00.001-07:00

Title: Teen Athletes Sleep Better Than Couch Potatoes
Category: Health News
Created: 8/20/2009 4:10:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 8/21/2009 More at...

Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) is the most common treatment for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). Except for tracheotomy, it is also the most effective treatment for OSA. CPAP is basically a computerized air pump that delivers pressurized air through a hose and then through a nasal interface into the patient's throat. The pressurized air splints open the upper airways, preventing the airflow pauses (apneas) and airflow... More at...

Insomnia is defined as difficulty falling or staying asleep, or the complaint of unrestorative/unrefreshing sleep. Most people experience short-term insomnia from time to time, but when insomnia lasts for more than several weeks, it is considered chronic and should be evaluated by a physician. Insomnia used to be classified by sleep specialists as either primary or secondary insomnia. Secondary insomnia was insomnia that was due to an... More at...

I previously posted about the diagnosis of insomnia, the difference between primary and secondary/comorbid insomnia, and the importance of evaluating for and treating any underlying causes of insomnia. I encourage you to read my Secondary Insomnia post before reading any more of this post. Today I will be talking more about medication treatment options for secondary (comorbid) insomnia. Although persons with primary insomnia (insomnia not... More at...

Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for Insomnia (CBT-I) is an effective treatment for most cases of primary insomnia, and for selected cases of secondary insomnia. There are a variety of behavioral and psychological treatments that comprise CBT-I, including stimulus control therapy, relaxation training, biofeedback, paradoxical intention, sleep restriction therapy, sleep hygiene education, and cognitive therapy. Usually several of these treatments are... More at...

Title: Health Tip: Recognize the Signs of Drowsy Driving
Category: Health News
Created: 8/18/2009 8:10:00 AM
Last Editorial Review: 8/18/2009 More at...

Title: Sleep Training Helps Ease Insomnia Tied to Arthritis
Category: Health News
Created: 8/20/2009 2:10:00 PM
Last Editorial Review: 8/21/2009 More at...

You are what you eat I can hear you saying, "Okay... now I have to watch what I eat and when I eat it... but now you are going to limit my fluids?" No! However, there are certain factors that should be kept in mind when drinking any type of fluids. One troublesome item is caffeine. Caffeine interferes with sleep with most people. Caffeine can also become an addiction... so watching our intake should be... More at...