Information on Sleep and Sleep Disorders

Featured Article Drugs and Sleep Sleep is a wonderful and essential way for the body to rest and recharge. Many common drugs, both legal and illegal, can interfere with getting the restorative sleep we all need. Understanding the relationship between drugs and sleep is the first step toward getting a better night's sleep. Alcohol Because alcohol depresses the central nervous system, many people think it will help them sleep. The truth is just the opposite. While alcohol may make you feel drowsy and even help you fall asleep, alcohol-induced sleep is of a very poor quality. Alcohol causes waking during the night and only allows the body to sleep in the lighter stages of sleep. It prevents REM sleep (the stage in which we dream), which is needed to maintain physical and mental health. To prevent sleep problems caused by alcohol, avoid alcoholic beverages two to four hours before bedtime. Read on to learn more about drugs and sleep.			Blogs
			Since their introduction some five years ago, web logs have become an essential tool for gaining an insight into the latest developments in almost any area of interest. Click here to learn and to contribute to the sleep blog.
			Community Q&A
			No matter what the topic, there are usually more questions than answers! This is where you come in. The Q&A feature on this site allows all users to ask questions and to provide answers and to rate the answers of others. Click here to join a conversation in our sleep community.
			Dictionary
			Every topic has its own special lexicon. Therefore, to simplify understanding of the subject we’ve included a dictionary with definitions of the more arcane words used in this site. Click here to explore the sleep dictionary.

In This Site...

ApneaSleep apnea is a sleep disorder that causes people to stop breathing for short periods during sleep. Learn more about sleep apnea.
Read Article >>

Types of Sleep DisordersOver 70 sleep disorders are recognized in the United States. Learn about the different types of sleep disorders and how they’re classified.
Read Article >>

Treatment for Sleep DisordersSleep disorder treatments can vary among different people and different disorders. Learn about the treatment options for different sleep disorders.
Read Article >>