In addition, declarative memory is improved with slow-wave sleep, and this includes both semantic and episodic memory.Ī central model has been created on the assumption that long-term memory storage is promoted by interaction between the hippocampal and neocortical networks.

Electroencephalograph (EEG) demonstrates delta waves (high amplitude, low frequency)ĭeep sleep is important for consolidation of new memories, and is often referred to as “ sleep-dependent memory processing.” Thus, individuals with primary insomnia will have impaired memory consolidation and won’t perform as efficiently as normal patients when completing memory tasks following a period of sleep.Slow-wave sleep (deep sleep) is one of the Stages of Sleep. Therefore, a period of 30 seconds’ sleep, consisting of 20% or more slow-wave sleep, is now considered to be stage three. Since the year 2008, the American Academy of Sleep Medicine no longer refers to stage four, and stages three and four have combined to create stage three. There’s no clear difference between stages three and four however, stage three has 20 to 50 percent delta activity while stage four has over 50 percent. Research Behind Sleep Stages and Deep SleepĪccording to the Rechtschaffen & Kales (R & K) Standard of 1968, deep sleep can be described as stage three of non-rapid eye movement sleep and is often referred to as “ slow-wave sleep”. In contrast with Rapid Eye Movement sleep (REM sleep cycle), the main characteristics of slow-wave sleep are absent or slow eye movement, moderate muscle tone, and lack of genital activity. This state is a depolarizing phase, whereas the former state is a hyperpolarizing phase. The next section of the wave is indicated by an upstate an excitation period whereby the neurons fire briefly at a rapid rate. It’s during this period that the neocortical neurons are able to rest. The initial section of the wave is indicated by a down state an inhibition period whereby the neurons in the neocortex are silent. Because the EEG activity is synchronized, this period of sleep is known as slow-wave sleep: it produces slow waves with a relatively high amplitude and a frequency of less than 1 Hz. What is Deep Sleep?ĭeep sleep is the sleep stage that is associated with the slowest brain waves during sleep. We’ve all heard of deep sleep (also known as slow-wave sleep) and how our bodies need it to function properly, but what exactly is it? There is an abundant amount of research on deep sleep, but we have all of the essential information you need to know on what it is, its function, and how you can get more of it. BOARD MEMBERS / CONTRIBUTORS / REVIEWERS.Ask the Sleep Doctor: Do you have a question about sleep or sleep disorders?.Sleep Disorders – ICD-10 Codes and Names.Sleeping Pills: Medications to Help you Sleep.Best Anti-Snoring Mouth Guards, Mouthpieces, and Snoring Devices.CPAP Supplies – What connects to the CPAP machine?.CPAP and BiPAP: Which One is Best For You?.Excessive Daytime Sleepiness: Causes, Test and Treatments.Drowsiness: Causes, Treatments, and Prevention.Bruxism – Teeth Grinding Symptoms, Treatment & Causes.Hypersomnia: Symptoms, Causes, Definition and Treatments.Night Terrors: Causes, Symptoms, & Treatments.Sleep Deprivation: Symptoms, Causes, Treatments.Narcolepsy – Definition, Symptoms, Causes & Treatments.Sleep Apnea: Common Causes, Risk Factors, Treatments.Night Guard for Bruxism: Teeth Grinding and Clenching.Best Weighted Blankets: Reviews and How They Work.CPAP Cleaners – Reviews of the Best Cleaning Machines.Mattresses: A Review of the Best and Buying Guide.Sleep Debt: Signs, Symptoms & Treatments.Sleeping Tips to Help You Fall Asleep Fast.

Dreams – What they mean and psychology behind them.

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