Actigraphy is a useful way to assess and manage sleep disorders

Actigraphy, the use of a portable device that records movement over extended periods of time, and has been used extensively in the study of sleep and circadian rhythms, provides an acceptably accurate estimate of sleep patterns in normal, healthy adult populations and in-patients suspected of certain sleep disorders, according to practice parameters published in the April 1st issue of the journal SLEEP. more  

New study in SLEEP finds that sleep disturbance increases spontaneous pain in women

Sleep continuity disturbance impairs endogenous pain-inhibitory function and increases spontaneous pain in women. This supports a possible pathophysiologic role of sleep disturbance in chronic pain, according to a study published in the April 1st issue of the journal SLEEP. more

Sleep quantity affects morning testosterone levels in older men

The testosterone levels of healthy men decline as they get older. As sleep quality and quantity typically decrease with age, objectively measured differences in the amount of sleep a healthy older man gets can affect his level of testosterone in the morning, according to a study published in the April 1st issue of the journal SLEEP. more  

To sleep, perchance to dream: New insight into melatonin production

In the 1 April issue of G&D (Genes and Development), a Korean research team led by Dr. Kyong-Tai Kim (Pohang University) describes how melatonin production is coordinated with the body's natural sleep/wake cycles. more

Insomnia: Assessment and management in primary care  

About one-third of patients seen in a primary care setting experience occasional insomnia, and 10 percent may suffer from chronic sleep problems. However, insomnia is rarely the chief reason for a medical office visit. This report presents up-to-date information on insomnia and highlights the role of the primary care physician in recognizing and managing this condition. Includes questions that can be incorporated into the review of symptoms. The publication also describes behavioral treatments such as relaxation therapy, sleep restriction therapy, and stimulus control, in addition to pharmacological treatments, such as hypnotics, antidepressants, and other medications. more

Problem sleepiness in your patient  

This booklet, designed for primary care physicians, provides an overview of problem sleepiness, its consequences, causes, identification, and management. Also discusses how other medical conditions, drugs, and lifestyle influence problem sleepiness. Includes sample table of questions for patient assessment. more

Sleep Apnea: Is your patient at risk

Sleep apnea is a serious, potentially life-threatening condition. This document discusses the consequences of sleep apnea and how to identify patients at risk. Diagnosis, treatment options, and management considerations are also addressed. more

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