SleepNews - The world's first sleep blog

WE'RE MOVING!

2005-09-28T11:29:00.000-04:00

In order to avoid any confusion with a company in Georgia called "Sleep Sciences," I'm moving this blog to a new address called SLEEPNEWS! (I know, it's silly, but they sent me a cease & desist letter and I just don't have the resources or inclination for a legal battle, even though both parties involved know I'd win!) I told you sleep was big business. I'm just a sleep tech in Tennessee trying to make it easy for people to find information about sleep disorders, and this big company jumps on me thinking I'm costing them business! Would you have confused "SLEEPSCIENCE" with "Sleep Sciences?" Sheesh, lawyers! I'd say more except, (ahem) I'm married to one! (yuk, yuk) Anyway, please visit SLEEPNEWS (www.sleepnewsx.blogspot.com) for the latest information about the science of sleep. -Shawn

Hurricane Katrina Relief - Sleep Professionals

2005-09-09T10:30:00.000-04:00

With occasional competitive exceptions, the sleep science community is pretty tight. So it isn't surprising that sleep professionals have pulled together to support our colleagues and patients who are in need due to the devastation wrought by Katrina. The American Sleep Foundation has established a Hurricane Disaster Relief Fund that will offer assistance to members of the American Academy of Sleep Medicine as well as their affected patients. More information is available on the AASM web site. I strongly encourage anyone interested in promoting sleep science to contribute to this fund. There is sure to be an influx of patients whose overall physical and emotional well-being is severely affected by this traumatic event. Many state and regional sleep societies have also been quick to react. The Tennessee Sleep Society is one of the leaders in this effort. Find out how you can help by visiting the TSS web site. -Shawn

The Science of Sleep

2005-09-08T11:03:00.000-04:00

Someone asked me recently why I call this blog SleepScience. Today's news illustrates exactly why: The Wilson County news has a story today entitled "The Science of Sleep - It's Biology That Makes Teens Groggy in the Morning." The story quotes well-respected sleep scientist Mary Carskadon of Brown Medical School. BBC news has an informative article up on their web site called "The Science of Sleep." Cephalon has announced a new endowment for the "Sleep Science Award," which will be sponsored by the American Academy of Neurology. The deadline for nominations is Nov 1.

There's a new website up called "The Science of Sleep" which contains comprehensive information about the sleep sciences. Check it out at: www.scienceofsleep.net. DrKoop.com has a informative new video available for online viewing entitled "Sleep Science." Check it out here. The University of Western Australia has announced a new graduate certificate in pediatric sleep science. View details here. WYFF TV in North Carolina has a feature today called "The Mystery of Sleep Science." So, now you know! Stay tuned to SleepScience for the latest information about the science of sleep! -Shawn

Clapton, Eminem, & the Cincinnati Bengals

2005-08-22T09:38:00.000-04:00

Whew - It's been quite a week. My sincere apologies for not blogging more last week. It was a rough one! First of all, my job always comes first, and it was a busy week here at the sleep center. On Monday of last week Google announced they'd no longer allow SleepScience to participate in their AdSense program. They weren't specific in their reason, but I think it has something to do with my monitoring the ads that appear here for content. If that wasn't enough of a hit, I got a cease and desist letter from a sleep center in Georgia who apparently thinks I'm infringing on their "sleepsciences" trademark. Of course, that letter went straight to my attorney for a response. Just to make things clear, the reason this blog is called sleepscience is it deals with sleep science. It's a personal public service project by a sleep technologist in Tennessee. See, I told you this was a big money business! Jeeze!

In sleep news, Eric Clapton has a new album of all original songs due out in a few days. He credits much of the inspiration behind the songwriting to his lethargy brought on by sleepless nights caring for his young children. One of the songs called "So Tired" contains the line: My mood is getting snappy/Daddy won't change no nappy/And I'm so tired. In other news, the Cincinnati Bengals have begun testing all their players for sleep disorders. This comes after the sudden death last week of San Francisco's Thomas Herrion from unknown causes. Finally, rap star Eminem announced last week that he's addicted to sleep medicine. My guess is that there's more to that story because he's cancelled his European tour to "recover." While sleep meds can be addictive, withdrawel usually only consists of a couple of sleepless nights. That's all for Monday. Thanks for reading my blog about sleep science. Let's hope this week is better than last! -Shawn

Sleepy Travel

2005-08-10T09:15:00.000-04:00

Virgin Atlantic Airlines is introducing a new "meditainment" video on longer flights hoping to program passengers for better sleep. The guided meditation video features relaxing music and scenes from either a desert island or summer meadow. Many of the major airlines are noting the current state of sleep deprived travelers and putting new emphasis on in-flight sleep. Speaking of travel, there's a new hotel being built in Dubai in which guests sleep beneath the ocean. Each bubble-shaped suite features underwater views and a variety of upscale amenities. Visit their web site to learn more!

Sleep researchers in Austrailia have embarked on a study evaluating the effects of East-West flights on sleepy airline pilots. They'll use activity monitors and evaluate reaction times to see how difficult it is to turn back the clock on international flights. Finally, following up on yesterday's story, the Lansing State Journal has a feature today about the effects of school-age sleep deprivation on grades and health. Interviewing Dr. David Young from Sparrow Hospital, the story lists consequences of sleep deprivation including depression, reduced immunity to disease, and memory reduction. Thanks for reading. Please help introduce others to SleepScience. Have a nice Wednesday. -Shawn

Back to school sleep

2005-08-09T09:58:00.000-04:00

I suppose one of the reasons why I've been so actively blogging about back-to-school sleep schedules is because I had so much trouble when I was a kid. I was a night owl and could never go to sleep before midnight. I grew up in a rural area and I was almost always the first morning stop on the bus route. My routine was to lay out my school clothes and books beside my bed before I crashed for the night. I had trained my ear to hear the 6:30 AM bus lumbering down the road when it was still about a mile away. I'd jump up and rush into my clothes, running outside just as the bus turned around in my driveway. The bus driver knew me well. Sometimes I'd oversleep and he'd lay on the horn until I rushed out. Settling into a straight-backed seat, I'd make a pillow out of my backpack and sleep through the 90 minute ride to school.

In my sophomore year I had library for the last hour of the school day. There was a little periodical room in the back. I'd go there, dim the lights, and lay my head down on a stack of magazines. Sleeping through the 60 minute study hall was no problem. Twice I slept through the last bell, awakening to find the school locked and dark. My parents never quite understood when I called to ask them to pick me up. I thought my problem was unusual. Now, this kind of sleepiness is commonplace.

Dr. Michael Breus, who is well known in the sleep community for his work helping start sleep centers, was interviewed on the CBS News Early Show yesterday about how to help kids prepare for the school-season changes to their sleep schedule. He suggests waking them up earlier, in 15 minute increments in the weeks before school begins. He also advocates adjusting meal times and eliminating late night sugar snacks. Research proves that sleep-deprived kids make worse grades and have more behavior problems than those who get 9-10 hours per night. Are your kids sleeping to and from school or falling asleep at their desk? Why not give them the help they need! -Shawn

Shelby & the Sandman

2005-08-08T10:50:00.000-04:00

It's Monday, and there's lots to blog about today. Many news agencies have picked up on a study detailed in Medical News Today about how nighttime dying is linked to sleep apnea. The research, conducted by Jack Feldman at UCLA's med school, found that loss of certain brain cells results in central sleep apnea. Central sleep apnea is different from obstructive sleep apnea in that the brain does not signal the body to breathe. Obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) happens when soft tissue in the airway causes impediments to breathing. When people have OSA, they try to breathe but can't get enough air. It's unclear what connection there might be with Dr. Feldman's research on central apnea and the treatment of OSA. In other news, the San Antonio Express features a story about what it's like to be a sleep technologist. For an in-depth look at sleep and sleep research, check out Craig Lambert's article in the latest issue of Harvard Magazine. Although I've never really blogged about myself in print media, I can't resist referencing a letter I wrote to the Knoxville News Sentinel regarding some inappropriate advertising which poked fun at snorers. Sleep apnea is no laughing matter and it's unfortunate when it's trvialized by people who should know better.

Finally, as a musician, I look for and appreciate songs that include lyrics about sleep. Country artist Shelby Lynne has a new song about insomnia called "SLEEP" on her latest CD, Suit Yourself. Shelby says she wrote the song while fighting a period of chronic insomnia. Lyrics are available on her web site and include some great lines that anyone who's ever suffered from insomnia can identify with, like:

Sleep - Please appear
Show to me your face and tell me it's ok to rest
Sleep - Help me try
To put my body down on pillows made out of my Mama's womb
Satisfy my eagerness for comfort in this time of worry, let me let it go
When I'm sure the lights are out and sandman throws himself about
I'll trust you again. -S. Lynne

Hope your work week is off to a great start! -Shawn

Getting off the early bus

2005-08-05T09:17:00.000-04:00

If there's been a theme for this week's blogs it's been the challenges facing our sleepy kids. As this school year begins with earlier start times than ever before, it's time for parents to step up and stop this trend! This might sound a bit harsh, but it's obvious that the many school boards, principals, teachers, and coaches who insist on earlier and earlier school bells are either unaware, or don't care about our kid's health! Today, the Orlando Sentinel starts an article on school start times with: "One by one, eight sleepy-eyed teenage boys wander out of the darkness and gather at a lighted school-bus stop on Montgomery Road. It's 5:45 a.m. Thursday..." In this Florida situation, it's the rearrangement of school zones that results in the pre-dawn bus rides, but the problem persists all around the country. As someone who watches the news closely about such subjects, I know it's just a matter of time before I'll be blogging about a child getting hit by a car while waiting on some dark road for an early bus. Adding morning hours to the school day is counter productive to learning. Take a look at this study out of Israel which finds that even a minimal amount of sleep loss can drastically impact a childs learning abilities. It's time for school boards to wake up to the importance of a good night's sleep and take better care of the kids under their charge. They won't unless we, as parents, make our concerns known. -Shawn

Monsters Under the bed

2005-08-04T10:37:00.000-04:00

In Thursday news, there's a story at newszap.com about challenges to kid's sleep including some suggestions about how to spray for under-bed monsters. Speaking of monsters, Texas A&M's student newspaper, The Battalion has a story today about "Sleep Demons." That's their term for sleep difficulties such as insomnia and sleepwalking.

As many schools begin to gear up for Fall semester, there are some sleep experts expressing concern about how student's can cope with earlier and earlier start times. Now that Congress has passed an extension to Daylight Saving Time, it looks like our kids are going to face even more obstacles to a good night's sleep. Finally, we've been following the story of Australian judge Ian Dodd, who has been nicknamed "judge nod" because of his frequent naps on the bench. Judge Dodd has avoided a judicial conduct inquiry into his sleepiness by accepting a medical retirement based on sleep apnea. I can't help but wonder why the unfortunate judge didn't look for medical help to eliminate his daytime sleepiness. When people are treated properly for sleep apnea they can live normal lives and maintain wakefulness as easily as anyone. Sleep apnea is one monster that can be tamed! -Shawn

Eat, Sleep, FISH

2005-08-03T13:37:00.000-04:00

Sorry to have missed a few days blogging. I got in a couple of days of much-needed vacation which included lots of music and fishing! When I'm not working or sleeping, my next thought is almost always about fishing. Special thanks to Andy & Jake Faist for taking me to some great bass fishing waters in central Michigan. In sleep news today, KOCO TV Channel 5 in Oklahoma City has a good story today about sleep myths. You can catch a summary on their web page. Even better, KHOU TV in Houston features a video download of a woman's visit to a sleep disorders center in a La Quinta hotel. Locating sleep centers in hotels is becoming a national trend. Vanderbilt University Medical Center pioneered the idea when it located a first class center in a downtown Nashville hotel. In other news, some preliminary research into the children's asthma medication Singulair has revealed improvement in sleep disordered breathing in 16 kids. While more research is needed, this might be the first time any medicine has shown an efficacy potential for treating apnea. Expect to hear much more about this in the future. Finally, Medicare is conducting hearings about the accuracy of a sleep apnea detection device worn on the wrist called the "Watch-PAT." I've heard very little about the device since 2001 when it was introduced at the APSS conference in Chicago. The Watch-PAT senses arterial pressure along with heart rate and oxygen saturation to detect sleep apnea. I'll keep you posted on how the hearings turn out. -Shawn

Extending daylight-saving time

2005-07-28T14:59:00.000-04:00

You might have heard already that a key feature of the new energy bill making its way through the U.S. Congress is a month long extension to daylight-saving time. While this might save energy, it's more bad news for the sleep-deprived. Research shows people sleep less during DST because it's later when the sun goes down. This also means kids will be going to school when it's still dark outside. Also making news, USA Today has an excellent report about the current state of our sleepy society in today's edition. The story features a photo of Mimi Payne, age 57, as she undergoes a sleep study at the UCLA Sleep Disorders Center.

The piece also includes data about sleep and aging and the impact of sleep loss on the body's immune system. In other news, there's a story out of England about a top Birmingham anesthetist who has been suspended after falling asleep during an operation. You'd think that his colleagues would have woke him up and suggested treatment rather than snapping pictures of him with their cell phones! An investigation is pending. -Shawn

Spacey sleep!

2005-07-27T12:50:00.000-04:00

As the shuttle Discovery blasts into the atmosphere and America resumes the space program, I thought it might be interesting to look at sleep aboard the space shuttle. Russ Williams quotes Discovery's commander, Jim Kelly on today's WQAD newscast from Moline, Illinois.

"I asked him one time if it was easy to sleep or hard to sleep. He says it's really easy because there's no weight on your body. They're strapped in, so you just float as your sleeping. He loves it, but then that's what he's been working for for the past 10 years," says Russ.

Speaking of sleep in spacey places, there's a story in USA Today about unusual hotels including the Dog Bark Inn in Cottonwood, Idaho where guests sleep in the body of the worlds biggest beagle! For other unusual sleeping locations, check out the Unusual Hotels of the World website. Have a great hump day! -Shawn

Sleeping with The King

2005-07-25T11:20:00.000-04:00

Today, there's news out of Memphis, Tennessee that fans of Elvis can now sleep in the same room The King slept in when he first moved there from Tupelo in 1949. The restored apartment is decorated with 1950s fixtures and furnishings and rents for a mere $250.00 a night. There's a waiting list, so call now! In other news, a University of Cincinnatti assistant basketball coach has been acquitted of DUI after claiming he was suffering from a sleep disorder. Keith LeGree was charged after he was found passed out at the wheel of his car. He was slow to awaken and disoriented and unable to blow enough air through a breathalyzer. The jury deliberated only 5 minutes before finding him not guilty. LeGree says he is now taking medication and undergoing tests for his disorder. This may be more evidence for better police education about sleep disorders. Also today, there's news that ramelteon, now going by the brand name ROZEREM, has been approved by the FDA for insomnia. ROZREM is the first perscription sleep aid that is not designated as a controlled substance. Have a good Monday. -Shawn

Why can't Anna Sleep?

2005-07-22T09:37:00.000-04:00

TGIF! There's a very interesting personal narrative at BBC News today about one woman's life-long struggle with insomnia. According to the article, Anna Musgrave experimented with many sleep inducing methods, but I can't see any evidence that she ever visited a board certified sleep physician. Perhaps the most recurring theme of this SleepScience blog is that there is help available from professionals who are specially trained and qualified to treat sleep disorders. All the hypnosis in the world is useless if there are physiological origins to insomnia. Over-the-counter sleep remedies usually just complicate the problem. The best way to treat insomnia is a professionally prescribed program which may include sleep logs, behavioral modification/therapy and an investigation of possible intrensic causes. In other news today, "Dear Abby" takes on the issue of sleep deprivation due to one teen's overuse of cell phones, and there's more about the looming marketing battle between sleeping pill makers on today's AP wire. Have a great weekend! -Shawn

A sleepy Harry Potter?

2005-07-21T13:50:00.000-04:00

Although I've yet to read "Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince," I've found the associated fan-craze extremely interesting. I won't get preachy about the book's minute-after-midnight release and the effect that had on our already sleep-deprived teens, but I can't help but point to an opinion piece in this week's London Telegraph in which Jim White wonders why Harry Potter's sleep patterns aren't like those of most kids his age. Here's an excerpt:

"Have you defeated the Dementors like I asked you?" Dumbledore demands - snappily - as he storms into Gryffindor to find Harry still in bed at midday.
"Er, no, not yet," Harry replies, sleepily.
"How many times do I have to tell you?" Dumbledore fumes, explosively. "If you don't do it, who do you think will?" "Take a chill pill, man," says Harry, insolently. "I've said I'll do it, yeah?" Harry then rolls over, falls back asleep and is roused only when Dumbledore comes back into his room an hour later and, in his fury, issues a spell that makes the bedclothes disappear.

(Chuckle) I agree, Jim!

-Shawn

Sleep & Breast Cancer

2005-07-20T09:56:00.000-04:00

A study published in today's edition of The Journal of the National Cancer Institute shows that when and how a woman sleeps may effect her risk of breast cancer. The study finds that the more melatonin a woman produces, the lower the cancer risk. Melatonin is a natural hormone produced during sleep. Previous research has found an increase in melatonin production in dark environments. Bottom line: Lower the risk of breast cancer by getting plenty of sleep in the dark. I suspect that additional links between cancer and melatonin will be discovered in the future. Also, there's lots of articles in newspapers around the country today about the market push for new sleep drugs. Driven at first by Lunesta and now by other drugs in the same emerging class, the increased competition could result in bigger ad campaigns than those of erectile dysfunction drugs such as Viagra. Aye, but here's the rub. Sleeping pills are usually not the answer to physiological sleep disorders such as sleep apnea. Taking them could even make things worse. It's important to find the root of the problem before treating the symptoms of sleep disorders. -Shawn

Sleeping on the Tour de France

2005-07-19T09:18:00.000-04:00

I was curious about how much sleep cyclist in the Tour de France are getting, so I looked around and found this story in the Kokomo Tribune about the race-day lifestyle of American Chris Horner. I found his regular 8-9 hours of sleep per night coupled with caffeine use very interesting. Also today, The Detroit News has a cover story today about current American lifestyles and the effect on sleep. Dr. Alon Y. Avidan of the University of Michigan says that Americans sleep 20 percent less now than they did less than a century ago and that we pay the price with heart disease, diabetes, and obeisity. Finally, officer Darnell Williams is back in the news today as results become public of the internal affairs investigation that cost him his job. As was first reported here at SleepScience, it wasn't his sleep apnea that caused his car crash and confusion, it was the 4+ shots of whiskey he had before he started driving home! Have a great Tuesday. -Shawn

Sleepy people, sleeping politicians, & tired cops

2005-07-18T13:33:00.000-04:00

In an article titled "America - Home of the Sleep Deprived," Forbes Magazine quotes sleep guru Dr. Bill Dement on the current lack of sleep facing our society. In the article, Dement blames America's overwhelming sleep debt on physiological reasons along with a lack of concern by government agencies. Personally, I can't help but wonder if sleep deprivation isn't at least partly responsible for American's lackadaisical attitude toward torture, treason, and the other atrocities being committed by our current political leaders. But that's another story for another place. In other sleep news, I-Newswire.com reports on research proving that poor sleep is not a normal part of aging. This is something sleep professionals have been saying for years, but it's nice to have some data now to support the assertion. Finally, noted sleep researcher Charles Czeisler of Brigham & Women's Hospital has won a 2.5 million dollar grant to study sleep disorders and fatigue among police officers in Boston. Unfortunately, he's running into opposition from police administrators and even union officials. Here's to hoping they come around to allowing the study. If you've followed this blog, you know that there have been some key incidents around the country in the last few weeks pointing to the need for better sleep disorders awareness among police. C'mon folks, better lifestyle and working conditions are always a good thing! -Shawn

Are You Ready For Some Football?

2005-07-14T09:45:00.000-04:00

Although football season is still a month or so away, many of us are already dusting off the tailgating gear in anticipation of another fun season. Here in Knoxville, Tennessee, we've refined Tailgating to a T. On most football Saturdays you'll find me either partying on the river with the Vol Navy, or swapping lies with the poker gang up by Neyland Stadium. Not to throw a damper on the enthusiasm, but it's worth pointing out that there will be a silent and deadly player also taking the field this September. A report by EmaxHealth today talks about the high prevalence of sleep apnea among football players. This received some attention late last year when obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) was thought to be a complicating factor in the death of NFL defensive great Reggie White. A recent study published in the New England Journal of medicine shows that well over a third of professional football linemen suffer from sleep apnea. Even though these athletes are in top-notch physical condition, they are genetically predisposed to OSA due to large necks and high body mass. "Many physicians have never considered such a diagnosis in young, healthy individuals because sleep apnea was previously thought to be associated with middle aged or older individuals" says Charles George, MD, Professor of Medicine, University of Western Ontario who was the principle investigator for the research. The bottom line is that sleep apnea occurs in all age groups including younger people who are otherwise perfectly healthy. If you think you have obstructive sleep apnea, or you know someone who does, don't delay contacting a doctor. It's not just a quality of life issue, it's a matter of life and death. If you need to find a board certified sleep physician in your area, email me. -Shawn

When the lights go down in the city

2005-07-13T09:19:00.000-04:00

Sorry for missing a few days. I'll blame a hectic work schedule and busy personal life for the lack of blog time. Also, there just hasn't been much news about the science of sleep lately. I found a story today about how three Texas cities rank among the most sleep deprived in the country. According to a report just published in Men's Health Magazine, Houston, El Paso, and San Antonio are outranked only by Fresno, CA as the worst places to sleep. You can see all 101 cities ranked on the KWTX TV web site. Where does your town fit in? Oh, btw, don't lose too much sleep if your city is ranked low. The ranking is very flawed because one of the factors is the number of sleep disorders centers per capita. Since practically every city in the nation is underserved, it just means the lower ranked cities have better treatment opportunities!! (Duh-oh) Have a great hump day! -Shawn

Snooze-a-palooza, a Tallahassee update, and caffeinated beer!

2005-07-07T10:37:00.000-04:00

Most of today's news is understandably dominated by the terror attacks in London. But there are a few sleep reports seeping through. First off, there's a somewhat humorous look at improving sleep through better bedding on the New York Times site. From Vancover, the BC Coroner has issued a report to help prevent sleep related infant deaths. If you've been following this blog you know we've been keeping up with the plight of officer Scott Darnell of the Tallahassee Police Department. As you might remember, Darnell crashed his off-duty SUV into a local teenager's car then into a lake before staggering away from the scene reeking of alcohol. When questioned by internal affairs, he blamed his confusion on sleep apnea. After local sleep physicians disagreed, Darnell announced yesterday that he would resign. There's still no clear reason why the local police didn't test him for DUI at the scene. In other news, Anheuser-Busch has announced a new "energy beer" which contains both alcohol and caffeine. Umm, they might want to rethink that one. But it's just more evidence of how our society is compensating for lack of sleep with stimulants. Finally today, American Girl magazine has released a new book to make adolescent sleep-overs more fun. Titled "Snooze-a-palooza," it provides over 100 sleep-friendly slumber party ideas. Have a good Thursday.
-Shawn

Teenage Girl Sleepwalks to Top of Crane

2005-07-06T10:25:00.000-04:00

It's Wednesday and the big sleep news today is about a 15 year old girl who was rescued after being found fast asleep 130 feet up on the arm of the construction crane shown in this picture. CNN is carrying the story on their Headline News front page today as are most of the major news services. How can this happen? Sleepwalking, or somnambulism is most common in children and adolescents. Sleepwalking most often occurs at a point in the sleep architecture when the sleeper's brain waves have become larger and slower and she has moved into deeper sleep. This is not REM sleep, but deep non-REM sleep. The series of complex behaviors characterizing somnambulism includes "amnesia following an episode," and "difficulty in arousing the patient during an episode" While sleepwalking, the patients' brainwaves show a mixture of types of brainwave patterns, including ones similar to those observed in waking patients, as well as those found in deep sleep. Generally the sleepwalker is not aware of what is happening and is not forming memories of their actions. Sleepwalking is a serious disorder for some and a mild annoyance for others. Doctors usually don't get too excited about it unless it results in behavior like this, that might endanger the patient's life. Fortunately, a fireman sensitive to this teen's plight did not try to immediately wake her when he climbed to her sleeping perch atop the crane. Fearing she might startle and fall, he found her cell phone and asked her parents to call and wake her. -Shawn

Off-beat sleep news to start the holiday weekend!

2005-07-01T09:10:00.000-04:00

As they say, a picture is worth a thousand words. Here's some off-beat sleep stories that made news in the past week or so. In Pine Bluff, Arkansas, a man fell asleep at the wheel of his car and crashed through a house landing on top of the bed of a sleeping resident. Fortunately, no one was seriously injured. A police officer in Winter Haven, Florida has resigned after he fell asleep in his squad car across the street from where a woman lay dying. People on the street tried to wake him up but he remained asleep until ambulance and other emergency responders had arrived and the police chief knocked on his window. The officer, who says he suffers from sleep apnea, later resigned. Police in Narragansett, Rhode Island answered complaints that someone had, on at least five occasions, scattered sleeping pills on the grounds of a local elementary school. The charge turned out to more rumor than truth, but a local woman was found to be hiding Unisom in some bushes by the school. In Albuquerque, New Mexico, a man who fell asleep during a traffic stop was charged with his 18th DWI. A sound-asleep Bethlehem, PA man was rescued from his burning car when a passerby noticed flames and hurriedly work him up. There's no word on how the fire started. Enoshima Aquarium in Fujisawa, Japan is offering people a chance to sleep with the jellyfishes. Applicants chosen by lottery get a tour of the aquarium, a boxed dinner, and a space to lay a sleeping bag in front of the large jellyfish tank. Fans cite the therapeutic effect of snuggling down in front of the translucent creatures.

I'm off for an Independence Day weekend camping & fishing trip. The 4th of July is usually my favorite holiday. Is there any better combination in the world than pyrotechnics and beer? Last year I awoke to find bottle rockets in the ceiling and burn marks on the toilet paper. How did that happen? (yuk, yuk) Have fun on your holiday! -Shawn

OSA drugs & chilled socks!

2005-06-30T10:38:00.000-04:00

A company in the Netherlands has joined forces with a US corporation to try and produce the first ever medicine for obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). They'll focus on a formula called mirtazapine which has been shown in some preliminary studies to reduce OSA by up to 50%. While I strongly believe we should be working toward better treatments for OSA, I'm not sure a medicine like this is the solution. I just don't see much possibility of a drug strengthening throat muscles or shrinking soft tissue. But we'll cross our fingers and wait! In a somewhat related story, Reuters is reporting on the link between OSA and facial features such as a steep jaw line and narrow throat. In other news, scientists have discovered that newborn dolphins don't sleep at all for the first month of their lives. Of course, this is leading some scientists to speculate that humans might also be able to adjust to sleep deprivation. I doubt that. Finally, Dr. Chris Idzikowski of Scotland has been hired by British Airways to study better methods of sleeping on airplanes. One method he's investigating - chilled socks. Ha! I'm 6'4" tall and I can tell you in no uncertain terms that, cold socks or no, unless the airlines provide more room in those tiny seats, there's not much hope for any sort of real sleep. -Shawn

Singing For Snorers

2005-06-29T10:14:00.000-04:00

Alise Ojay, a singing teacher in England, has devised a method to help snorers sing their way to better sleep. Don't laugh, it might just work! The singing classes are designed to strengthen throat muscles so there is less chance of collapsing and blocking the airway. I really like this idea and I think it'll prove most useful for simple snoring and mild sleep apnea. Dr. Malcom Hilton of Royal Devon and Exeter hospitals is beginning a clinical trial to evaluate the method's efficacy. You can find out more by visiting the Singing For Snorers website. In other news, Medical News Today is reporting on a study about how sleep improves memory. Of course, we already know that, but this research uses MRI to identify the specific areas in the brain strengthened by a good night's sleep. Finally, check out this story about a man in York England who awoke to find himself in the street covered by a blanket of bricks and morter. It seems a construction crew working outside his apartment had weakened the wall behind his bed. The poor guy, already suffering from post traumatic stress due to the Gulf War, thought he was back in Iraq. I'm sure lawsuits are pending. Have a great Wednesday! -Shawn

Sleep linked to weight gain

2005-06-28T10:36:00.000-04:00

There have been several studies in the past year suggesting a link between sleep and weight gain or loss. A new mouse study released today suggests that the same part of the brain that controls our sleep cycles also regulates weight. This study could help explain why disrupted sleep patterns coupled with high fat diets lead to excessive weight gain. There's a story in the The Sun, UK about a sleepy rugby fan who wrecked his car killing another driver. Following up on the Denver APSS meeting, the Reporter-Herald in Loveland, Colorado reports on some recent research findings about sleep deprivaton. Calling it "leg-i-tis," the Winston-Salem Jounal has an article today about Restless Leg Syndrome. Sorry, I know there's not a lot of interesting information out today, but I'm sure there'll be more tomorrow - stay tuned! -Shawn

Sleepwalking on the roof, CBT therapy, & a winning poker hand!

2005-06-27T10:22:00.000-04:00

In Monday news, check out this story from the UK about a man who managed to somnambulate up to his roof where he woke up and fell off! Also today there's a story in the Greenwich Times about Kim West who is a sleep consultant specializing in coaching parents of sleep challenged kids. This type of cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is becoming more and more common in treating insomnia in both children and adults. While I was driving around in Colorado last week, I tuned in a story on NPR's Morning Edition about it (Listen). A panel from the National Institutes of Health recently noted that CBT is at least as effective as medications for treating insomnia. While many board certified sleep physicians are currently practicing behavioral therapies for their insomnia patients, there are very few therapists specializing in CBT available. Hopefully this will change as more people realize the need.

Finally, have you ever wondered why you aren't winning at the neighborhood Texas Hold'em game? Roy West at Cardplayer.com says it might be because you aren't getting enough sleep! Have a great Monday! -Shawn

Denver Sleep Deficit - Final thoughts from APSS

2005-06-24T15:26:00.000-04:00

TGIF! Just as I'm recovering from my own jet lag-induced sleep deficit, the Denver Post has a feature about the APSS meeting and the negative effects of sleep deprivation. Post writer Katy Human cornered Adam Moscovitch from the Canadian Sleep Institute who presented research aimed at improving the sleep habits of long haul truckers. In his research, 23 out of 29 truck drivers reported making fatigue related mistakes in the past year! There's also more information in Katy's article about other abstracts presented at this year's APSS meeting. (yawn) Have a great weekend. I'll see you Monday! -Shawn

APSS Day 4 - On the road again

2005-06-23T14:56:00.000-04:00

Today is a travel day for me so I'm blogging from a cyberstation at the Denver International Airport. My week at APSS is now over. It was extremely fun and very educational. Next year's APSS conference will be in Salt Lake City. I'll see you then!

There's not much going on in sleep news today but there's an interesting story in the Almogordo Daily News about how the town is establishing "Quiet Zones" where horns won't honk and train whistles won't blow. This is becoming a national trend aimed at helping people sleep with less interruption, but someone's always gotta complain! Paul Bense, a long-time Almogordo resident, has been holding up "Save The Whistle" signs at railroad crossings all over town. Sorry Paul, nostalgia has it's place and all, but you're standing on the wrong side of this track! -Shawn

APSS Day 3

2005-06-22T23:40:00.000-04:00

There's a full moon over Denver tonight. My hotel is in the Cherry Creek area and I have a great view of the downtown skyline. At this morning's APSS conference I sat in on several sessions about new pharmacological treatments for insomnia. Here's one showing the efficacy of Indiplon for elderly patients and another examining Lunesta and Ambien. I blogged about Ramelton earlier in the week, and more data was displayed today showing its potential. Also, I was introduced today to Gaboxadol which is the first in its class of Selective Extrasynaptic GABA-A Agonist (SEGA). Except for Lunesta and Ambien, these other drugs remain in the FDA approval process and won't be on the market for several months. I'll keep you posted.

I also wanted to blog a bit about the annual APT Blues Night party at the Denver Westin Hotel. I've skipped this party the last couple of years. As a musician, it's really difficult for me to sit around where there is bad music, and I figured since this was an open mike/jam, it would be sorta rough. But this year I got up the nerve to go and was plesantly surpised at the quality of the musicianship. There was a bit to be be desired in sound quality, stage presence, etc. but I had a great time and congratulate the APT and the sponsors for a fun party. The highlight of the night for me was watching one of the most influential researcher in the history of sleep medicine making his rounds on the dance floor with all the pretty girls at the party! Go, go Guillminault! See you tomorrow. -Shawn

APSS Day 2

2005-06-21T11:05:00.000-04:00

The most interesting study I encountered in today's sessions was one presented by researchers at the University of Rochester showing that additional sleep might be an effective treatment for depression. I think this might be an example of putting the cart before the horse. I think it's obvious that lack of sleep contributes to depression in some people. So, it's also logical that getting more sleep might help them. But many people actually sleep more during the times they are depressed. I'd like to hear more about this. Still, the study found that depressed patients with insomnia were 11 times more likley to remain depressed after six months than those sleeping well. You know what they say, more research is needed!

Also today I had a chance to visit the APSS Exhibit Hall and speak with the vendors. I found the MEDCARE booth most impressive with a live subject soundly sleeping while her polysomnogram was projected on giant screens visible from anywhere in the busy hall. The sleeper was wearing an eye mask and covered up from head to toe. When I asked, they said she was not taking sleeping pills but had been awake for the previous 24 hours.

Also, take a look at this article from the Denver Westword newspaper about the APSS conference. It's interesting because of its focus on the role of dentistry in treating sleep apnea. The author's statement that "Surgeries and clunky CPAP (Continuous Positive Airway Pressure) breathing machines no longer seem to be the most effective way to cure snoring and sleep disorders: oral appliances are." is simply opinion and not supported by research. CPAP remains the gold standard for treating sleep apnea. I've personally published research showing that oral devices will not eliminate apnea for moderate or severe patients. -Shawn

More on APSS Day 1 - Racial differences in childhood sleep

2005-06-20T18:06:00.000-04:00

My first day at APSS has been eventful. This is the first year in my memory when Day 1 research has been presented only in the morning session. The second half of the day was blocked off for Exhibit Hall visiting and poster presentations. That's okay by me because I always enjoy looking at the research abstracts presented in the posters. It's much easier to speak with the researcher when they're standing right there beside their research summary. Since my interest is leaning more and more toward childhood sleep disorders, it's not surprising that I spent most of my time in the pediatric sleep research section. I found two projects especially interesting.

The first looked at racial differences in childhood sleep hygiene and related sleep quality. The research by Brian Crosby, Monique LeBourgeois, and John Harsh found that there are numerous differences in the way white and black families approach sleep. White children went to bed easier, fell asleep faster, maintained more sleep, reinitiated sleep faster after waking, and woke up easier. The authors suggest better educational programs and clinical interventions related to sleep hygiene. Another poster I liked examined the sleep of children who spent lots of time in day care. (I'm sorry, but I missed the author's name.) Due largely to the work schedules of their parents, these children got up earlier and probably sleep less than other kids. There's lots more to blog about, but I'm out of time for now. Stay tuned for more live blogging from APSS Denver. Email me if you have questions! -Shawn

Day 1 APSS Denver: New Sleep Drug

2005-06-20T12:24:00.000-04:00

The 19th annual Associated Professional Sleep Societies (APSS) annual meeting in Denver is well underway. I hit town last night after an adventurous day of missed flights and long downtown walks! My first activitiy was a PROJECT OSA planning session. PROJECT OSA is a public sleep apnea education initiative of the Tennessee Sleep Society (TSS). TSS is one of the newer state societies in the country. It is becoming very active in public education. The big news of today is a study showing that Ramelton, a new sleeping drug, has excellent potential for helping people initiate and maintain sleep. Ramelton works in a completely new way by targeting receptors in the brain's suprachiasmatic nuclei (SCN) or "master clock," - the part that regulates our sleep wake cycle. Although it's still pending FDA approval, this is exciting news for those suffering from insomnia and occasional sleeplessness. In other APSS news, I heard of an interesting study by Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit showing that REM sleep deprivation causes extreme sensitivity to pain. I'm off this morning to opening ceremonies. Stay tuned to SleepScience - I'll have more sleep news as soon as it breaks. -Shawn

Yer drivin' me crazy!

2005-06-17T10:39:00.000-04:00

She Stabbed him with a pen then hit him in the head with a dumbbell! That was the reaction of Deanne Miller-Boschert from Fargo, ND to her husband's incessant snoring. According to the police report, she wanted to wake him so he would sleep on his side. First she poured water on him, but when that didn't work, she resorted to more drastic action. Mr. Boschert got up, went to a convenience store to call police, then went back home and went to bed! Let's hope somebody called the next day for a sleep study!

I'm off to Denver for the Associated Professional Sleep Societies 19th annual meeting. This meeting will bring an estimated 5000 sleep professionals together to compare notes and discuss recent research. Look for live SleepScience blogs beginning Sunday. Finally today, a quick suggestion for the perfect Father's Day gift - LET DAD SLEEP IN! Have a great weekend.
-Shawn

9-11 Impacts Nation's Sleep

2005-06-16T09:16:00.000-04:00

Beginning Sunday of next week I'll be blogging live from the Associated Professional Sleep Societies 19th Annual Meeting in Denver, Colorado. This conference is the premier gathering of sleep scientists and physicians in the world. Of particular interest to me is research to be presented about the effects of the September 11 attacks on our nation's sleep. Elaine Baily of the University of Arizona studied a nationwide sample of nearly 900 people and found clear patterns of sleep disturbance, even as long as 6 months after the attacks. I'll keep you updated about this and other research as it is presented in Denver.

In today's sleep news, as reported by Newsday and picked up by sources all around the country, scientist at the National Institutes of Health concluded yesterday that way too little is understood about the causes of chronic insomnia. Additionally, they announced that many of us do exactly the wrong things in attempting to cope with insomnia. Another story I found troubling involves a social service agency in Baltimore which houses unfortunate children in a downtown office building where they sleep in plastic chairs with no blankets or pillows. I realize there are funding issues here, but the insensitivity of some bureaucrats defies logic. In my opinion, someone should go to jail! Let's hope we find out who is responsible and provide similar accomodations for a good long while! -Shawn

Lesson 1 for learning - Sleep!

2005-06-15T10:01:00.000-04:00

It's Wednesday, and the major U.S. networks are buzzing with sleep news. CBS delivers word from Toronto that sleep may help the brain reorganize and adopt newly learned skills. The improvement in the learning curve was picked up in the area of the brain called the caudate nucleus. This is one of the primary areas responsible for coordination and body movement. So I guess the lesson is, skip the all nighters, study for a couple of hours, then get some sleep! Over at ABC News there's a story about restless leg syndrome and the costs of sleep deprivation. Even FoX has joined the act with another story about sleep and learning. In other news, Stanford University has announced what they hope will be the largest ever clinical trial for the study of sleep apnea. The multi-center trial will include 1100 patients and be funded by the National Institutes of Health. Finally today, check out the "What Kind of Sleeper Are You" article at WebMD. It's a summary of the recent National Sleep Foundation's Sleep In America Poll in which Americans are divided into five sleeping categories. Have a happy hump day! -Shawn

Gruesome update

2005-06-14T10:15:00.000-04:00

Five minutes after I posted today's blog, which included comments about sleep-related automobile accidents, Gene Turney of St. Thomas Sleep Disorders Center sent me this story about an accident on I-40 near Nashville. Nine people were in this van that crashed when the driver fell asleep this morning. -Shawn

More on the high costs of sleep disorders

2005-06-14T09:12:00.000-04:00

Yesterday's blog about David Ottman's sleep apnea related death at Bonnaroo is punctuated by a study released today in the journal CHEST. Reported by Medical News Today, researchers in Dublin found that treatment of sleep apnea with CPAP greatly reduces the chances of cardio-vascular disease related death. In case the risk of sudden death isn't enough, there's a very eye-opening story from England estimating that 5 out of 8 fatal automobile crashes are related to sleep deprivation. Department of Safety statisticians in the United States have always drastically underestimated the number of sleep related accidents. We spend millions per year on drunk driving awareness but put very little effort into advising people about the dangers of sleepy driving, even though it's probably a bigger problem. Providing even more motivation for better sleep disorders awareness, there's news today from Australia about the high monetary costs of sleep loss. The total cost of 10.3 billion per year for the land down under is just a drop in the bucket compared to world-wide figures which must be in the hundreds of billions. Government officials in Australia admit that sleep health has not been a part of the national health agenda. I bet it will be now! -Shawn

Fatality at Bonnaroo

2005-06-13T09:13:00.000-04:00

This SleepScience blog originates in Knoxville, Tennessee. Knoxville is known for a couple of things. First, it's one of the biggest football towns in the country, second, lots of great music comes from Knoxville. So, I guess it's no surprise that I fit both stereotypes in that I'm prone to hours of pre-game tailgating, and I front a bluegrass band. On rare occasions I find connections between my personal interests and my professional life as a sleep technologist. One came a few months ago when Reggie White, who played college football for the University of Tennessee, died as a result of complications of sleep apnea. This weekend there was another sad connection.

The biggest music festivals of the year for this area is called Bonnaroo. Billed as the new Woodstock, it's promoted by a Knoxville company and takes place just down the road in Manchester, Tennessee. Since 2002 tens of thousands of music fans flock to the annual festival from all over the country. This weekend one died of sleep apnea.

The 32 year old Alabama man had been diagnosed with sleep apnea and used a CPAP machine at home. Apparently he was camping at the festival with no electricity, so he didn't bring his machine. The results were fatal. The moral to the story, if there should be one, is that people who wear CPAP should *always* use it, even during naps or when away from home. Some manufacturers now provide machines that run on batteries or some other DC voltage source for use during power outages or camping. A more important lesson is that sleep apnea kills. Unfortunately, hundreds of people die every day from the complications of untreated sleep apnea. Either they don't know they have it or they've put off seeking treatment. As this sad incident at Bonnaroo illustrates, treating sleep disorders isn't a quality of life issue, it's a question of life or death. -Shawn

The Accreditation Issue - An Editorial

2005-06-10T09:10:00.000-04:00

Yesterday I received a long letter from a lady who'd just finished a sleep study but wasn't getting answers to her questions. She obviously had a sleep problem, but even though she thought she was doing the right things like talking to her doctor and going to a sleep center, she still wasn't getting the treatment she felt she needed. Today, Mike Giordano from channel 11 in Bristol, Tennessee has a story about a doctor who wanted to practice pediatric sleep medicine but didn't meet the standards for certification. These stories illustrate the biggest problem facing the science of sleep medicine - inexperienced and inadequately trained doctors and technologists. It's relatively easy for me and others to recommend that sleepy people look for sleep centers accredited by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) and doctors who are diplomates of the American Board of Sleep Medicine (ABSM), but that's an oversimplification of the problem.

To get to the crux of the issue it's necessary to understand that there just aren't enough accredited sleep centers available to meet the demand. Want to prove it? Try this simple experiment - look in the yellow pages under sleep disorders and find a sleep center. Call them, ask if they're accredited, then ask how long it will take to get an appointment and sleep studies. I think you'll find their answer to be "weeks" or even "months" instead of "days." Because of the long delays in treating patients, and because the business of sleep can be financially lucrative, there are many start-up sleep centers popping up all over the country. Many of these centers employ inexperienced technologists or untrained therapists and fall under the medical direction of doctors who have little if any training in treating sleep disorders. Some centers don't even have doctors at all! The vast majority of these centers cannot meet the standards for AASM accreditation and many don't ever have plans to try.

Complicating the issue is that the Joint Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Organizations (JCAHO) offers a somewhat simplified accreditation credential in direct competition with the AASM. All this adds up to an increased frequency of poor-quality care for sleep patients. The biggest threat to advances in the treatment of sleep disorders is the practice of poor sleep medicine. The solution is that doctors, sleep lab owners, state and federal agencies, insurance companies, and accreditation services should all work together toward streamlining accreditation procedures and eliminating reimbursement for sub-standard facilities. As a patient, it's important that you take responsibility for the quality of care you receive. Your first question to your doctor should be, "Is this sleep center accredited?" The answer might be "no" because the center is currently involved in the accreditation process, so your next question is, "Is the medical director a diplomate of the AASM?" If you receive "no" answers to both questions, it's time for more investigation and careful consideration before you go for a sleep study. If you need help finding a quality sleep center in your area, email me. -Shawn

Kids Who Snore

2005-06-09T11:04:00.000-04:00

In Thursday sleep news we find a great article in the Louisville Courier-Journal about the research of Dr. David Gozal who is a pediatrics professor at the University of Louisville. According to Dr. Gozal, anything that translates to snoring in children is not normal and should be evaluated by a sleep doctor. The Courier-Journal article contains a first hand account of a pediatric sleep study by Laura Ungar. Her son Aaron has been snoring so she enrolled him as a research subject.

Also today, check out the "Sleep From A to Zzz" article in Readers Digest which defines current buzz terms. Finally, there's a piece on the U.S. Newswire about the upcoming Associated Professional Sleep Society annual meeting in Denver. I'll be there blogging live so stay-tuned to SleepScience for breaking news in the world of sleep medicine. -Shawn

Sleeping in space

2005-06-08T11:11:00.000-04:00

Today the San Diego Union Tribune has an article about the difficulties astronauts face sleeping in space. It seems they get any where from 30 minutes to 2 hours less sleep per night while aboard the space shuttle or international space station. I guess that's understandable considering there's a new sunset and sunrise every 90 minutes! NASA's answer so far has been sleeping pills and naps, so they're sponsoring research at the University of Pennsylvania to find out just how long the most productive nap should be. To date, the scientific consensus has been that it's better to take very short naps of 20 minutes or less, or longer ones of 90 minutes or more. The thinking behind this is that it avoids the possibilty of waking up in the deeper sleep stages when one is more likely to feel groggy. Shorter naps end before we reach stage 3 or 4 sleep, and longer naps allow us to go through a complete sleep cycle concluding with a period of REM sleep. This should be an interesting study because or the implications to so many other professions. (Note: NASA first released this information to ScienceBlog.) Hope your Wednesday is great! -Shawn

Later Classes + More Sleep = Better Grades

2005-06-07T09:12:00.000-04:00

All the news agencies are buzzing with the story we blogged about yesterday concerning teen's losing sleep because of early school start times. Here's a WebMD summary and another take on the story from CBS News. Recent research show that when kids get more sleep, they make better grades. Duh... oh. KFMB in San Diego is running a story today about kids and sleep apnea suggesting that all snoring children get checked out for this dangerous sleep disorder. From the Sydney Morning Herald comes news of an "intelligent" cot that helps rock infants to sleep while lowering the liklihood of SIDS. Invented by students at Coventry University, this invention sounds promising, but maybe a bit impractical. Also today, if you're really interested in sleep medications, check out the webcast by Dr. Vaughn McCall of Wake Forest University as he speaks at the National Institutes of Health about the use of "off-label" drugs to treat insomnia. Off-label means use is not among the indications approved by the FDA. Have a great Tuesday. -Shawn

Maggie's Law & Celebrity Sleep Feng Shui

2005-06-06T09:56:00.000-04:00

In Monday sleep news a Cape May, New Jersey man is the first person to be convicted and sentenced under "Maggie's Law." Named after 20 year old Maggie McDonald who died at the hands of a sleep deprived driver in 1997, the law prescribes stiff penalties for sleepy driving. Scott Robb pleaded guilty to vehicular homicide and was sentenced to 5 years in prison after admitting he had gone 24 hours without sleep before he took the wheel of his car. In other news, Reuters has a story on their wire from Chicago about early school start times and how they adversely affect performance and learning in teenagers. From Amarillo, Texas we hear that sleep requirements stay the same as we age, and finally, I got a kick out of this story on eMediaWire about Robin Bentley, a Feng Shui consultant and author. Robin took a look at some celebrity couples and somehow analyzed their compatibility based on the arrangment of their bedrooms. Her results, Tom Cruise & Katie Holmes sleep well together, so do Renee Zellwegger & Kenny Chesney, but Brad Pitt & Angela Jolie may be in trouble as are Britney Spears and Kevin Federline. Read the rest of her list here. Have a good Monday. -Shawn

Don't put off treatment for sleep apnea!

2005-06-03T10:12:00.000-04:00

Late last month I blogged about a judge in Austrailia who faced disciplinary action due to sleeping through a rape trial. It turns out he has sleep apnea. To complicate his problems, we hear today that his drivers license has been suspended since authorities learned of his sleepiness. The lesson here is that people who suspect they might have sleep apnea should seek treatment immediately. It's very easy to put off treatment hoping things will get better. They won't. It'll only get worse. In this situation the judge lost his license and maybe his job, but in many cases the consequences are much worse and often fatal. If you suspect you may have sleep apnea, or if you have a friend or loved one who might, call a board certified sleep physician today. If you need help finding one, email me. -Shawn

Relearning the art of sleep

2005-06-02T10:08:00.000-04:00

Newswire has an article today called "Relearning the Art of a Good Night's Sleep" which outlines approaches to dealing with insomnia. There's also a question and answer session in the Biloxi Sun Herald which discusses insomnia treatments. As reported by BBC News, a British parenting magazine has conducted a survey which finds modern parents get about 30% less sleep than their parents did. The survey revealed that new mothers of young babies say they only get 3-4 hours per night, while mothers of the 60s and 70s say they got 5 hours. While I wonder if the researchers took memory issues into account, it's more evidence of how the faster pace of current society magnifies sleep problems. Finally, Dr. Gail Saltz of MSNBC takes on a question from a disgruntled beau who's miffed that his girlfriend allows her 8 year old daughter to sleep in her bed. Have a great Thursday. -Shawn

Prescribing Addictive Drugs for Sleep

2005-06-01T09:34:00.000-04:00

Medical News Today is reporting on research from Ohio State University (previously published in the Journal Sleep) that shows nearly half of patients who go to their primary care doctor for sleep problems are prescribed addictive medications. This is extremely concerning since further sleep disorders evaluation is overlooked, there's little effort toward behavioral modification, and there are so many *better* medications available. Unfortunately, many physicians at the primary care level are drastically under-educated about proper treatment for sleep problems. Especially troubling about this research is that 3 out of 4 patients were prescribed sleeping pills, usually old-school benzodiazepines. This study effectively underscores the daunting challenges we face in properly educating doctors and the public in the proper treatment of sleep problems. -Shawn

More on the Pillar Procedure & some new sleep drugs

2005-05-31T09:32:00.000-04:00

Here's to hoping everyone had a great Memorial Day weekend. I've received a few questions about the efficacy of the Pillar Procedure lately. I'm not in a position to make medical recommendations, but I have said the jury is still out on the Pillar Procedure as a treatment for sleep apnea. I believe most of the data supports use for simple snoring, and we have yet to see proof of efficacy for obstructive sleep apnea. Here's an article in today's NEWSDAY about it. There's also news today about a couple of new insomnia drugs. There's a report on the Ivanhoe news wire about how tryptophan (famous as the sleepy substance in holiday turkey) may improve sleep and morning alertness, and MedicalPost.com has a story about how Sativex, a cannabis extract, is improving sleep for some MS patients. Finally, I like this article in the India Times about the "soulfulness" of sleeping in the pre-industrial days of our ancestors. Have a great Tuesday! -Shawn

Louisiana & New Jersey lead the way!

2005-05-27T09:26:00.000-04:00

It's Friday, and sleep technologists in Louisiana need our help in passing Lousiana House Bill 883 which provides state licensure for polysomnographic technologists and recognizes polysomnography as a seperate and distinct profession. While I have some concerns about allowances for training, it looks like this bill is a giant step forward in advancing quality and safety in the practice of sleep medicine and one that can be used as a model for laws in other states. New Jersey recently passed a similar bill. You can add your name to a list of supporters by sending your contact information and title to Lori Speyrer at remgazer@comcast.net. You can read more about this issue by visiting the policies page of the Louisiana Academy of Sleep Medicine's web site: http://www.lasmnet.org/policies.htm.

Thanks for the recent mail. I'll be doing a questions and answers blog next week to publish some of my recent back-channel responses (names removed of course). If you have a sleep question, send it my way and I'll do my best to answer or point you in the direction of someone who can. Have a great Memorial Day weekend! -Shawn

Sad news from Peoria and hibernating humans

2005-05-26T13:47:00.000-04:00

One of the recurring themes of my blog has been sleep deprivation in children and teenagers. Today there's a sad story in the Peoria Journal Star about the death of a popular high school cheerleader who fell asleep and crashed her car. In other news, jurors in an Anchorage, Alaska courtroom have been admonished to stay awake after two were seen nodding off during a murder trial. Also today, U.S. Newswire summarizes the latest issue of the Journal SLEEP. As far as I know, this is the first time they've done that. It illustrates the boost in public interest and increased focus news agencies are putting on sleep research. Medical News Today reports on new research linking asthma and sleep apnea. They also have an article about increased liver damage in those with severe sleep apnea. Finally, check out Doug Moe's column in the Madison, Wisconsin Capital Times about the hibernation story I blogged about yesterday. Doug fantasizes about how nice it would be to go to sleep in early November and wake up in late March. What? And miss all the holiday fun? Move over Doug, I'm joining you in the hollow log! -Shawn

Parents aren't looking for childhood sleep problems

2005-05-25T09:22:00.000-04:00

Last week's letter to Dear Abby from a sleepy thirteen year old punctuates a study released today by the American Academy of Otolaryngology which finds that 8 out of 10 parents don't recognize sleep disorders as a primary cause of attention deficit disorders and childhood obeisity. That's an extremely chilling figure when you consider the lifetime health consequences of untreated sleep apnea. I believe the biggest challenge to the professional sleep community is to better educate the public about the importance of healthy sleep in childhood. Also today, a study from the University of Toronto finds that the risk for stroke is doubled for people who have moderate to severe sleep apnea. The Boston Globe tells us how scientists are working toward a better understanding of hibernation in hopes of using the healing power of deep sleep to fight disease. Canada's Better Sleep Council reports that Prime Minister Paul Martin needs more sleep! A recent survey shows that about a third of Canadians say they don't sleep enough.

Finally, Actress Jane Seymour talks about her sleep problems today at contactmusic.com.

-Shawn

Why do I need an MSLT?

2005-05-24T09:12:00.000-04:00

There's a very good article on today's AP wire by Wayne Worcester, a journalism professor at the University of Connecticut who suffers from narcolepsy. His personal account of sleep testing includes a multiple sleep latency test (MSLT). I occasionally get questions about this test and why it's necessary. An MSLT is a series of nap opportunities at defined intervals during the normal wake period (usually during the workday.) Doctors look at the time it takes to fall asleep, and the sleep stages during the naps. People who go into REM sleep quickly after falling asleep are more likely to have narcolepsy. Sleep onset REM during any two naps is diagnostic for the disease. In other news, a study of 40,000 people in Taiwan reports that better educated women sleep better. Unfortunately, the opposite is true for men. I'm not sure this would apply everywhere, but it's an interesting report. The Boston Globe has a story today about the healing power of sleep and looks at the possibility of hibernation in humans. Have a great Tuesday! -Shawn

Treating restless leg syndrome

2005-05-23T07:54:00.000-04:00

In Monday sleep news the Chicago Sun Times has a story about FDA approval of the drug Requip for restless leg syndrome (RLS). This is not really big news because in-the-know sleep docs have been prescribing Requip for the uncomfortable bed-time leg sensations for a couple of years. The drug was originally invented to treat Parkinson's Disease, but it quickly became apparent that it was very effective for treating RLS. There's no reason to worry about a link between Parkinson's and RLS. They aren't related, it's just a happy accident that Requip works for both. Other events in the world of sleep include lots of press about the recent childhood obesity study at Bristol University. One of the most telling factors in the report is that kids under the age of three who slept less than ten and a half hours per night were much more likely to be overweight. I've been watching the expanding science of childhood sleep disorders very closely. Is it possible that sleep apnea starts in childhood and can be eliminated at an early age? For many people, that looks very likely. -Shawn

Dear Abby on sleep

2005-05-22T15:29:00.000-04:00

I heard from a reader about a Dear Abby column last week from a sleepy teen. Here it is:

DEAR ABBY: I am 13 and in the eighth grade. I have always had trouble sleeping. Every night it takes me an hour to fall asleep, and lately I haven't been able to sleep at all. I have started taking pills that make you drowsy so I can get some sleep. My mom doesn't know about the pills. I'm scared to keep on doing this. I have told my mom about my sleep problem, and she tells me to read. She won't take me to the doctor because she thinks my problem is normal. Abby, this isn't normal. What can I do? -- SLEEPLESS IN OKLAHOMA

DEAR SLEEPLESS: You are too young to be depending on sleep aids to help you rest. Please clip this item and give it to your mother. You should be evaluated by a sleep disorder specialist; your physician can refer you. At your age, you should be getting at least eight hours of sleep a night to do your best in school. Whether you are really up the entire night or not, I am concerned about the quality of the sleep you're getting. I hope your mother will change her mind. If she doesn't, ask a trusted teacher at school or the mother of one of your friends to intercede with her on your behalf.

Hmm, well, Abby is right that an 8th grader shouldn't be taking pills, and I also doubt that this youngster is up all night. But, Abby underestimated the amount of sleep this child needs, it's more like 9-11 hours. Regardless, it sounds like the mother is somewhat insensitive and I hope the column results in medical intervention starting at the primary care level. Take a look at this article from the Sunday edition of Inside Bay Area about adolescent sleep needs. -Shawn

Nicolette's sleepy!

2005-05-20T10:57:00.000-04:00

It's finally Friday! In sleep news scientist in London have drawn up a checklist for parents outlining early warning signs for childhood obiesity. Topping the list - too much TV, not enough sleep. KSAT in San Antonio has a story today about sleep myths. A Chelmsford, Alabama man has been sentenced to three years probabtion after using a sexsomnia defense in a child molestation trial. Finally, there's word today that Nicolette Sheridan is not getting enough sleep due to the popularity of Desperate Housewives. Have a great weekend! -Shawn

Objection your honor - It's not the OSA!

2005-05-19T09:40:00.000-04:00

In Thursday news, a Cambria County, Pennsylvania judge is in trouble for cursing and using sexually explicit language toward those who worked with him. His excuse - sleep apnea! You know, I might buy into this if it were just grouchiness and irratibility. People who suffer from sleep apnea can be extremely rude. It's amazing the life-change we see in them, sometimes after just one night of treatment. But in this case, Judge Berkhimer went a wee bit further when he told the women who work for him sex-stories, and even showed them nude pictures from the internet! Sorry your honor, I think it's time to let go of your gavel. In other news, ABC Austrailia is airing a report about the difficulties in sleep for shift workers. Take it from someone who has worked nights for many years, it's extremely tough, especially when you have to do it consistently, but there are ways to make it easier. Hope you have a fantastic Thursday. -Shawn

Sleepy News Day

2005-05-18T13:48:00.000-04:00

Happy hump day! I couldn't find too much news about sleep today, but there is a good article about the Madrona Medical Group's sleep lab in Bellingham Washington available in Bellingham Herald. Also, on PR Newswire there's a story about the recent research linking reflux and sleep problems. I think common sense has told us that for years! Yesterday I blogged about the Frost & Sullivan Award to Sleepdisorders Center of Georgia. They also named Respironics Inc. the leader in sleep diagnostic equipment and customer service. Have a great Wednesday.
-Shawn

Family Centered Sleep Medicine

2005-05-17T09:30:00.000-04:00

In the latest issue of "The Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine" there is an excellent article by members of the department of pediatrics at the University Hospital in Cleveland outlining best practices for performing sleep tests on children. While many of the recommendations are common sense, the gist of the article is that family members should actively participate in all aspects of the child's sleep test. I highly recommend this article to any parents who might be considering a sleep test for their child, and especially to medical professionals with an interest in childhood sleep testing. In somewhat related news, Frost & Sullivan has today named Sleep Disorders Center of Georgia as the recipient of its 2005 Comprehensive Service Provider and Innovator Award. What set SDCG apart from its peers is the innovative creation of a full array of patient care. Congrats to SDCG. As the sleep industry matures it's extremely important to realize that centers which concentrate on a patient/family centered apporach will become the leaders in this exciting field. -Shawn

Today's Fortune Cookie Advice - GET MORE SLEEP!

2005-05-16T10:46:00.000-04:00

Another Monday and WLBZ in Portland, Maine is reporting on a university study showing the importance of a consistent bedtime ritual for babies. KGO-TV in San Francisco has a piece today about the Pillar Procedure for sleep apnea. Wayne Worcester of the Canadian Press tell his sleep story today at Canada.com and on the AP wire. You can also read Chris Peterson's personal account of a night in a Central Utah sleep center here. Finally, I went to an Asian restaurant last night. I was discussing how a fortune cookie recently predicted the correct Powerball lottery number for 110 people, when I opened my own cookie to find, "You will sleep well." Hmmm, is this an omen of things to come? -Shawn

Growth of the Sleep Industry

2005-05-13T10:08:00.000-04:00

TGIF! Since I do consulting for start-up sleep labs, I find the business side of sleep medicine extremely interesting. As the science grows, so also does the industry and it seems like there are sleep labs springing up on every corner. Will the current boom last? Sometimes I wonder if the sleep industry isn't growing too fast. So many of these labs are just out for the money grab and don't take good care of their patients. I get lots of mail from disgruntled people who have had a bad experience with a non-accredited sleep lab. Take a look at this story from PR Newswire about the growth in the industry and the accreditation issue, and don't forget - always ask if your sleep doctor is a diplomate of the American Board of Sleep Medicine. Why trust your health to someone who is under-trained? In other sleep news, there's a report about the experimental sleep drug ramelteon on the Medical News Today wire. This medicine works by targeting brain receptors that regulate our 24 hour body clock. We'll watch this closely as it could signal a change in the way sleeping pills are prescribed. Finally, there's a personal narrative in today's Pasadena Citizen Online about an experience with a sleep lab. Although the writer seems somewhat skeptical, it sounds like his wife got the treatment she needed. I'm off to Hotlanta this weekend. Hope yours is great! -Shawn

Sleepy Athletes

2005-05-12T11:07:00.000-04:00

Today Newstream.com has an audio feature about the serious consequences of sleep apnea. Point your browser here and turn on your speakers. Also, there's lots of discussion in the medical community about a warning issued by the British Foundation for the Study of Infant Deaths. Here's a link to the warning in ScienceDaily. Many doctors feel differently about this. I've been watching with interest the discussion about co-sleeping on the PEDSLEEP board. Medical News Today has a story about how lack of sleep impairs teen athletes. This is especially pertinent since many highschools have started spring practice in the early morning hours before school starts. Duh, bad idea coach - you're handicapping their athletic performance and their grades! Have a great Thursday! -Shawn

Plop plop, fizz fizz

2005-05-10T09:49:00.000-04:00

Medical News Today leads today's blog with a report about the first U.S. study to evaluate heartburn during sleep. Research published this week in the journal CHEST, finds the biggest culprits to be carbonated drinks and sleeping pills. In other news, CNN has a story today about sleeping in the land of the midnight sun, and Consumer Reports has some tips for a healthier sleep environment. Finally, I liked this report from Australia about a sleepy judge who snored loudly during major trials. Turns out his honor was eventually treated for sleep apnea and is now much better. However, that isn't stopping those appeals from defendents who were convicted while he slept! Have a great Tuesday. -Shawn

Hotel Sleep Centers

2005-05-09T10:59:00.000-04:00

Monday, monday! I think most of the news agencies are sleeping in judging by the lack of news today! Since it's finals week at some universities, several college newspapers are carrying stories urging students to manage their time so that they get plenty of sleep. Here's one from Allentown, PA. I spent part of last weekend in Charlotte, NC. While there I learned that one of the area hospitals was moving their sleep center into a nearby Mariott hotel. Since hospitals can be very uncomfortable sleeping environments, we're seeing more and more centers being outsorced or at least moving out of areas where there are sick patients. I think it's a healthy trend. -Shawn

Sleep is in the air

2005-05-05T09:26:00.000-04:00

In Thursday sleep news, there's a new web site up by John Stallcup, co-author of "How To Sleep On Airplanes." Sleeptravel.com claims to offer "everything passengers need to sleep while traveling." It includes advice on how to get a good flight's sleep and sells travel tested sleep aids such as ear plugs, eye masks, and inflatable pillows. My favorite section is called "sleeptoids" and offers sleep trivia tidbits. Great site - great idea! In other news, KXAN in Austin Texas will run a segment on today's newscasts about the swaddling babies research I blogged about earlier in the week. There's a good story in the Tewksbury, Massachusetts Advocate about how much sleep we need to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Finally, check out this BBC News examination of long-term coma patients. I haven't seen too much research about sleep patterns during a coma but I think it would be a fascinating study. Do coma patients change sleep stages? Do they dream?

After my bluegrass gig tonight I'm off to Durham, North Carolina where I'll be speaking at the 45th annual Southern Society of Electroneurodiagnostic Technologists annual meeting. My topic is sleep center management. I hope to see you there! -Shawn

Lord of the Rings

2005-05-04T08:30:00.000-04:00

In sleep news this Wednesday the Jerusalem Post reports on a new ring device for early detection of cardiovascular disease. Published in the Journal SLEEP, ring-like probes worn for a few minutes on the index fingers of people suffering from sleep apnea provide data about arterial tone which can be indicative of heart disease. As the manager of a cardiovascular sleep lab, I can see many practical applications for technology such as this. In other news, there's a story on the US Newswire about the upcoming APSS annual meeting in Denver. This is the premier gathering of sleep scientists and clinicians from around the world. My son is getting married that weekend, but I hope to make it by the opening ceremonies to do some live blogging as news breaks. -Shawn

Asleep at the wheel

2005-05-03T09:34:00.000-04:00

It's Tuesday, and there's news from South Wales that a government sponsored anti-sleepy driving campaign might be inadvertently putting drivers to sleep! In a related and rather frightening story, there's something in The London Times' "LA Notebook" suggesting drivers of a new Infinity SUV can take naps at the wheel due to features such as addaptive cruise control and lane departure warnings. Yikes! In other sleep news, check out the article at Web MD about how swaddling helps babies sleep longer and reduces the risk of SIDS. Medical News Today reports by the Better Sleep Council that shows 70% of the 804 women surveyed say they are sleep deprived due to factors such as stress, sickness, and uncomfortable bedding.

-Shawn

Doubting Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome

2005-05-02T09:42:00.000-04:00

Sometimes I wonder if a great weekend makes Monday better or worse! Either way, it's here. The work week starts with news from Reuters that recent statistical drops in sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS) may be illusory because of changes in reporting terminology. The Alton, Illinois Telegraph has an article containing sleep tips for women who are suffering from insomnia. From the Philidelphia Inquirer we hear more about sleep deprivation in adolescents, and The Christian Post in California offers some life-style tips to improve sleep. Also, an article in Bella Online gives me a chance to editorialize about a disorder called "Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome." I'll go on record here by suggesting this condition is vastly exaggerated and may not be a "disorder" at all. While it's true that many of us are Night Owls and prefer to stay up late, it's only a problem when we have to conform to the norms or our "early to bed early to rise" society. Unfortunately, many Night Owls have jobs or other situations that require early awakening. That's where the problems start. While I don't expect it to happen any time soon, when we eventually learn that people are more productive when they match their work schedule to their body clock, there will be a vast reduction in sleep deprivation and we'll all be happier. A natural circadian rhythm of "late to bed - late to rise" doesn't mean we're unhealthy or suffering from a disorder. Night Owls are usually very creative and can be extremely productive at times when others are fast asleep. -Shawn

A matter of life and death

2005-04-29T10:25:00.000-04:00

Joel and Cindy Bumgardner were married for less than a year before sleep apnea took Joel's life. He was 37.

Friday sleep news is mostly about the gene research I blogged about yesterday, but the most important article of the week comes from the Janesville, Wisconsin Gazette. If you think you might have sleep apnea, or if you have a loved one who you think might have sleep apnea, please read this article. It contains especially good advice for those who have been prescribed a CPAP mask, but won't wear it. It's not a matter of convenience, it's your life! If you need to find a board certified sleep doctor in your area, please contact me. ~Shawn

Sleep Gene Discovered!

2005-04-28T09:09:00.000-04:00

Are you a night owl or an early bird? Do you wonder why? There's big news in the science of sleep today with the discovery of a gene that controls how much we sleep. University of Wisconsin-Madison researchers will report in the Journal Nature later this week that they have identified a single gene in fruit flies that determines when and how long they sleep. Since humans have a nearly identical gene, this will likely shed light on why we sleep the way we do. You can read more about it at these news sites: The Independent (England), Scientific American (US), Daily Telegraph (Australia), or NZ Herald (New Zealand). Have a great Thursday! -Shawn

Finals Week

2005-04-27T11:15:00.000-04:00

Today the Purdue University Exponent has an article encouraging students to get plenty of sleep before finals. As this semester comes to a close, that's good advice for students everywhere. Reuters and Forbes are reporting on research linking sleep and diabetes. A Washington D.C. otolaryngology group sent out a press release today advertising their use of the Pillar Procedure. See yesterday's blog for more information. There are several reports in newspapers around the world about the recent A.C. Nielson sleep survey which reports that over a third of us usually go to bed after midnight. Actually, the United States ranks 11th in countries with the most night owls. Portugal, Taiwan, and Korea hold down the top spots. Finally, PRN Newswire features an article about how snoring leads to poor performance in the workplace, and in the bedroom! Have a great Wednesday! -Shawn

Two questions you should ask!

2005-04-26T09:28:00.000-04:00

A few months ago I blogged about a new surgical splint for treating sleep apnea called the Pillar Procedure. Today, there's an article from ChannelNews Asia about use of this procedure in Singapore. I've yet to see efficacy statistics for treating obstructive sleep apnea, although there is apparently some success in treating snoring using this method. I'll let you know as soon as any scientific evaluations hit the press. Also today, TheStreet.com has an article about how Sepracor, makers of the new sleeping pill Lunesta beat Wall Street expectations for the first quarter. The Bangalore Times in India reports that 76 percent of Britons admitted to nodding off at work. The city of New York has launched a safety campaign which makes the controversial assertion that babies should sleep alone. You can listen her e. Finally, don't miss the interview in yesterday's San Mateo County Times with Dr.Rafael Pelayo. In the interview, Dr. Pelayo speaks to a familiar theme oft repeated here at SleepScience,

"readers should know that most people who are hanging out a shingle are not in sleep clinics accredited by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. People can get ripped off."

Once again, and I can't stress this enough, before you go to any doctor or sleep center, ask these questions:

1. Are you accredited by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine?

2 . Is the medical director a diplomate of the American Board of Sleep Medicine?

You should get a "YES" answer to at least one of these questions, preferably both. (Newer labs may be in process of being accredited, but if they don't have a medical director who is boarded in sleep, they can't be.) Hope your work week is off to a great start! -Shawn

Quick notes from DC

2005-04-25T10:37:00.001-04:00

It's a chilly Monday here in our nation's capitol. In sleep news the Hendon Times of London is reporting about lifestyle factors in insomnia, and offereing some sleep hygiene tips. There's lots more coming out about recent sleep releated gene research. Here's something from Italy. I expect this body of work to be the buzz at the upcoming APSS meeting in Denver. I'm going to try to do some live blogging from there this June. Finally, here's a story from Kansas City about how healthy sleep can help with weight control. Thanks for all the recent feedback. I'll post lots more tomorrow when I'm back in my regular routine. -Shawn

Sleep News for Earth Day

2005-04-22T10:19:00.000-04:00

It's Earth Day and don't miss the great article at Time.com about one of our "heroes of the planet," Lisa Wollett. Lisa and her husband Dan are dear friends and life-long best friends of my wife Dianne. We're meeting Lisa & Dan under Washington DC's cherry blossoms this weekend to help celebrate her Milken Educator Award. Dubbed the "oscar of teaching," it comes with a $25,000.00 grant! Way to go Lisa!

In Friday sleep news, scientists at UT Southwestern and in Japan have developed a new technique of tracking nerve cells in the brain. Funded by the Japan's Education Ministry, researchers believe brain-mapping has the potential to shed light on many of the mysteries of sleep. You can read UT Southwestern's news release here. I want to watch this closely, it could be a giant step forward in the science of sleep. In other news, Forbes magazine features a research article showing that the sleep-wake body clock can also control appetite. Sleep industry giant RESPIRONICS has reported a 52 week high in stock prices after international sales rose 37 percent due to the boom in the need for home sleep equipment. Also, there is an extremely graphic account of a sleep-induced automobile accident in today's Ottawa Sun. Today's new product is a watch called "Sleep Tracker" that is supposed to wake you at the most opportune time. While their web site doesn't say, I'm guessing that the watch contains an actigraph & pulse monitor. It likely works by identifying the lack of movement and slower heart rate in REM sleep. I'll let you know when I hear more about how well it works. That's all for this week. Have a great weekend! -Shawn

Does the Pope have sleep apnea?

2005-04-21T09:04:00.000-04:00

It's Thursday, and there's an interesting story on the AP wire today about Pope Benedict XVI's health. Reading through the article it is revealed that Pope Benedict has suffered at least one stroke and *has trouble sleeping*. Research shows that about one half of those who have suffered strokes have sleep apnea. All this coupled with the fact that he looks to have a short thick neck and an above normal BMI leads to a very distinct possibility of apnea. Here's some additional data supporting this conclusion. Considering what we know of his medical history, I hope doctors at the Vatican are looking at this carefully. Does the Pope wear CPAP? Has he ever had a sleep study? -Shawn

Helping Drew Sleep

2005-04-20T10:23:00.000-04:00

It's hump day and there's not a lot of sleep news to blog about, although I did like this story from Sydney about a drunk Aussie who was shot in the leg but, instead of seeking medical attention, went back to sleep! Also, National Geographic is covering recent research from Bethesda, Maryland showing continuity in infant and adult sleep. But more importantly, I'm worried that Drew Barrymore isn't getting enough sleep because she's leaving the lights on all night. Drew, I'll happily volunteer my services and do whatever I can to help! -Shawn

Treating kids with OSA

2005-04-19T10:33:00.000-04:00

For Tuesday, Medical News Today is reporting on the benefits of adenotonsillectomy (the surgical removal of the tonsils and adenoid tissue) for children who have sleep apnea. I had my tonsils out when I was a child for different reasons. In the early 60s tonsillectomy was very common since it was thought to reduce the occurance of throat infections and other illness. My experience at 2 years old was very memorable for two reasons. One, they promised me all the ice cream I could eat and didn't deliver, and two, it was done on November 22, 1963, the day when John F. Kennedy was shot. In other news, there's a story in the USA TODAY Money section outlining the sleep woes of frequent travelers. Also, since it's National Stop Snoring Week in the UK, BBC News is offereing some homespun remedies for quiter nights! Have a great day! -Shawn

Less scoring if you're snoring!

2005-04-18T09:07:00.000-04:00

It's Monday after another beautiful weekend in Eastern Tennessee. I got out on the trails of the Great Smoky Mountains this weekend. There were lots of spring flowers and I really like the work they've done to the Lodge on Mt. LeConte. I have to admit that I went to bed early and slept great last night! There's nothing like fresh air and exercise for healthy sleep.

In today's sleep news, it's stop snoring week in the British Isle, and the Daily Telegraph reports that people who snore less score more! The Sunday Times tells us that 15 million people in the UK snore and 30% of those are women. From my experience, sleep apnea is almost as prevelent in women as men, and maybe even the same as men once women pass menapause. Also, the Atlanta Journal-Constitution ran a story yesterday about recent advances in the treatment of restless leg syndome. A reader sent me a link to some recent research about RLS last week, but I didn't get around to blogging it. A central nervous system disorder, RLS produces uncomfortable sensations in the legs that usually peak in the evening or nighttime and prevent sleep. It almost always goes hand in hand with periodic limb movement disorders wherein the legs twitch at regular intervals throughout the night causing very frequent arousals and non-productive sleep. The good news in, science is making big strides in the treatment of these disorders. If you're a sufferer, now's the time to talk to you doctor! -Shawn

Dreams

2005-04-15T09:56:00.000-04:00

Friday!!! And there's a great summary of REM sleep and dreaming available at SheKnows.com. I had the very good fortune to meet and speak with Dr. Nathanial Kleitman, the discoverer of REM sleep at his centennial birthday celebration in Nashville in 1995. It was readily apparent, even at 100 years old that the man was brilliant. Read about his life here. The study of REM sleep is always fascinating to me. Some researchers look at dreams as just brain junk, while others see them as a window to the soul. I lean toward the latter and always try to pay attention to what my dreams may be telling me. We all enter the dream state several times every night, but we don't always remember our dreams. Last night I dreamed about a passing acquaintance who I haven't seen in years. I wonder why? Will I see him again soon? Has there been a sentinel event in his life? Time, will reveal any relevence. I also find art that is inspired by dreams fascinating. I've occasionally used dream material for a song or poem. Below is a verse I wrote a little while ago after dreaming of a place I've never been. -Shawn

From Dover

Whispering wind
Through raven tress
Enshrouding fog
Alluring dress

Beguiling night
Follow her call
From fitful slumber
Awakening walk

Summoning ballad
Incessant voice
Sings ever onward
No sanction for choice

Shimmering moon
A jewel on her lips
Reflects in the channel
Beneath the White Cliffs

Resplendent alter
Surrounded by souls
Seduced by her spell
Hymns from below

Persuasive descant
Embrace from the edge
Melt in her melody
Step from the ledge

©2004 Shawn Kimbro, All Rights Reserved

Lack of sleep fuels the make-up industry?

2005-04-14T10:20:00.000-04:00

In Thursday sleep news, a survey of professional women in Japan found that 70 percent don't get enough sleep due mostly to TV and the internet. The survey was conducted by a cosmetics company and also found that 80 percent say lack of sleep affects their looks. I find it extremely interesting that a cosmetics company would fund a survey about sleep. Is an international trend in sleep deprivation fueling growth in make-up sales? In other news, also from Japan it was revealed today that the driver of an express train that plowed into a busy commuter station suffered from sleep apnea and had likely fallen asleep. Today's new product is the SleepSmart Clock equipped with a headband and EEG electrodes that is programmed to wake you up when you are in the lightest sleep stages. Although probably too cumbersome for most people, this is an absolutely brilliant idea. But an even better idea is to get enough sleep! It may be hard for many of us to believe, but people who sleep enough don't need alarms to wake up on routine mornings. -Shawn

Of pillows & pods - The growth of sleep science

2005-04-12T09:14:00.000-04:00

I received an announcement today about a new pillow designed to improve posture while sleeping. While I'm not endorsing it, the candy-cane design of the Sleep Posture Pillow is interesting. You can read about it here. I appreciate product announcements so please keep them coming my way. I'll do my best to work quality, innovative sleep products into the blog. Also, thanks to everyone who is reading SleepScience. In the last couple of weeks we've seen a big increase in traffic. I'll do my best to keep blogging about the most pertinent topics in sleep medicine.

In today's news The Washington Post has an article about the sleep woes of frequent flyers. Coincidentally, The New York Times features a story about sleeping pods placed in airports and high stress business locations. The pods, marketed by MetroNaps of New York might just be the wave of the future for those of us who are on-the-go and sleep deprived. Finally, the Lowell, Mass Sun has an interesting article about the growth of sleep medicine in rural New England. Enjoy! -Shawn

Lunesta delivers and a new kind of clock!

2005-04-11T09:02:00.000-04:00

It's Monday after what was the most beautiful weekend of the season in East Tennessee. The work week starts off with news that Sepracor has cranked up its marketing machine for Lunesta (eszopiclone) and most pharmacies now have the new sleeping pills in stock. I have high hopes for Lunesta, but I worry that with all the hype, some people who might have serious disorders like sleep apnea might be treated with pills rather than proper therapy. Hats off to Sepracor for introducing Lunesta, but talk to a sleep physician if you think you might be suffering from something besides simple insomnia. There's lots more info about Lunesta on their web site.

Also today, an MIT student has invented an alarm clock that rolls off the table and away across the floor when you hit the snooze button. Looking more like a gerbil than an alarm, the "Clocky," features wheels, shag carpet, and a built in computer chip which randomly decides how far away it will roll. Unfortunately, Clocky is not commercially available just yet. When it is, it just might out-sell Lunesta! By the way, this story was sent to me by a SleepScience reader. If you see interesting sleep related news articles or related press events, please drop me a line. -Shawn

Extending dst & sleep advice from the Pope!

2005-04-07T10:31:00.000-04:00

If you're like me, you've probably been pretty sleepy this week adjusting to Daylight Saving Time. Today, CNN is reporting that congressional lawmakers crafting energy legislation have written in a two month extension to Daylight Saving Time. It'll start in early March and end in late November. (yawn) While this might save energy, I'm not sure it a good thing for our sleep deprived society. It's much more difficult to get to bed at night when daylight hours stretch near 10:00 PM in some time-zones.

In other sleep news, there's more attention to a recent study done in Taiwan showing that soft music helps the elderly sleep better. According to the study, improvement can be as much as a third! Also, Saint Louis University School of Medicine is exploring whether morning sunlight can help elderly nursing home residents sleep better. I stongly suspect they'll find an important connection. Finally, I've been looking for something to blog about regarding sleep in all the media attention to the Pope's death. Today, I finally found one! Yes, the beloved Pontiff has provided sleep advice, and it happend in Chicago! Read about it here. Have a great Thursday. -Shawn

CMS gets it right!

2005-04-06T09:30:00.000-04:00

Today the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) issued a final decision on unattended home testing for sleep apnea. (Read it here.) Based on an extensive review they found that there is not enough evidence for the accuracy of these tests to support Medicare reimbursement. Of course, most of us in the sleep community already knew this. The only accurate way to diagnose sleep apnea is polysomnography performed in an accredited or accreditation eligible sleep center under the direction of a board certified sleep physician. Unfortunately, a few unscrupulous equipment manufacturers and supporting physicians were pushing for this kind of testing so they could increase profits. Congratulations to CMS for this decision. This time, they got it right! The bottom line is, always *ASK* before you have a sleep test. Make sure you go to a respected and credentialed facility. The business of sleep is booming and there are people out there looking to make a quick buck. Contact me if you need to find a board certified sleep doctor in your area. -Shawn

Turkey Trot Tuesday

2005-04-05T12:58:00.000-04:00

Although I'm not exactly sure why, the New York Times features a story today about tryptophan in turkey. Bottom line: It has very little effect on sleep. The National Institute of Health has just announced that it is including a section about sleep disorders on its Senior Health website. You can check it out here. The South Bend Tribune has a feature about sleeping pets, and sleep industry giant Respironics Inc. has just acquired the actigraphy maker Mini-Mitter. Enjoy! -Shawn

Drowsy driving on the morning after!

2005-04-04T10:21:00.000-04:00

Did you think people were driving a bit crazier than usual on the way to work this morning? If you did, you were probably right. This is the Monday morning when most of us pay for the hour of sleep we lost over the weekend due to Daylight Saving Time. Coupled with their grogginess, many Monday drivers overslept making their work dash even more dangerous. As outlined in this report by KTLA in Los Angles, there's always an increase in accidents during the first week after the time change. In other sleep news, researchers have identified a mutant gene that causes people to wake up very early in the mornings, and Dr. Claudio Stampi of the Newton, Massachusetts-based Chronobiology Research Institute teaches endurance sailors how to manage sleep deprivation. Have a good Monday. -Shawn

Six Flags Over Sleep - NSAW Day 5

2005-04-01T09:28:00.000-05:00

It's Friday of National Sleep Awareness Week and the sleep celebration continues thanks to the efforts of the National Sleep Foundation. There's a virtual smorgasboard of articles to read from news sources all over the world. Here's where you can find about 100 of them in one click! In other sleep news, here's a story from Hong Kong about how obese kids are more likely to develop sleep disorders. Also, Cephalon is seeking approval for a new wakefulness drug called Nuvigil. It's intended to be a longer lasting version of their very successful Provigil (modafinil). Expect fast-track approval because, in addition to their use for those with narcolepsy and excessive sleepiness, these drugs have national defense implications. The military is experimenting with them on pilots and other soldiers seeking to increase alertness and longer periods of wakefulness.

Finally, don't forget to set you clocks ahead one hour before you go to bed Saturday night. The St. Louis Post Dispatch tells us why! Have a great weekend. -Shawn

Feather Canyons - NSAW Day 4

2005-03-31T09:25:00.000-05:00

It's day 4 of National Sleep Awareness Week. Today, Senior Journal features a good summary of yesterday's insomnia forum sponsored by the National Sleep Foundation (NSF). It looks like the NSF is finally getting the kinks out of their new web site which they unfortunately chose to launch on their biggest week of the year. Wow! Angel hair, ice cream castles, feather canyons, moons, junes, ..... Hmmm, I think the Washington sleep gang has been listening to too much Joni Mitchell! But seriously, the NSF must be very proud of all the media attention this week. They've done a fantastic job!

In other sleep news, The Mayo Clinic has just released a study about the increased risk of cardiac death during the night for those who suffer from sleep apnea. I work for one of the bigger cardiology groups in my state, and I observe the link between sleep disorders and heart disease on a daily basis. I get frequent email from individuals who have symptoms of apnea but aren't sure what to do. The answer is simple: Find a board certified sleep specialist ASAP. It's not a matter of convenience or quality of life. It's a matter of life and death. If you need to find a doctor in your area, drop me an email. -Shawn

Close encounters of the dream kind - NSAW Day 3

2005-03-30T13:59:00.000-05:00

It's day three of National Sleep Awareness Week (NSAW) and still lots of attention in the press to sleep. I especially like this "pipe dream" article from CBS News. Check out the National Sleep Foundation (NSF) website for a complete list of NSAW activities and press releases. Other favorite stories today include this one by the Lake Tahoe Daily Tribune about a local resident who suffers from sleep apnea. I also reccomend the sleep tips provided by National Newswire for people who've been victims of violent crimes. Finally, don't miss this chilling personal narrative by Rhiannon Coppin in Seven Oaks Magazine about her struggles with sleep paralysis. -Shawn

America wakes up to sleep - NSAW Day 2

2005-03-29T11:00:00.000-05:00

It's Tuesday of National Sleep Awareness Week and the news services are humming with sleep news. There's way too much to blog so here's the schedule. Unfortunately, the National Sleep Foundation chose yesterday to remake their web site, so it's slow loading and there are a few bugs. I'm a big fan of the NSF, but you'd think the redesign could have been done before their biggest week of the year!

CNN is all abuzz about sleep today featuring Dr. Sanjay Gupta's report about sleep disorders at least once an hour. Most of the data they are reporting comes from the NSF's "2005 Sleep In America Poll." Typical in America's pop culture society, the sections of the report about sleep and sex are getting the most attention. Still, it's absolutely invigorating to see so much attention given to sleep disorders. Hats off to the National Sleep Foundation for their hard work in educating us about the dangers of sleep loss. -Shawn

National Sleep Awareness Week (NSAW) Kickoff - Day 1

2005-03-28T08:59:00.000-05:00

Happy Monday! Today starts National Sleep Awareness Week in the United States. Look for lots of media reports about sleep medicine in the days ahead as we near the start of Daylight Saving Time. (Click here for a history of DST.) National Sleep Awareness Week is a project of the National Sleep Foundation. Unfortunately, they forgot to update their website this morning! Hey NSF, are y'all sleeping in today?

In sleep news, remember Officer Darnell from Tallahassee? We blogged Tuesday about how he blamed his staggering and disorientation after leaving the scene of an accident on sleep apnea. Well, after the Tallahassee Democrat newspaper requested additional records, and ABSM Fellow Sam Mickelson reported that sleep apnea would not result in disorientation after an auto accident, the good folks at the Tallahasee sheriff's office have re-opened their investigation. In another story which I find very interesting, Michael Rosen, and attorney in San Diego asks the question, "Is sleep deprivation torture?" Of course, Dick Cheney and the good folks in the Justice Department would have us to believe it is an acceptable interrogatory tactic. What do you think? -Shawn

How are your kids sleeping?

2005-03-23T15:21:00.000-05:00

WSAW TV in Wausau, WI is running a story on tonight's newscast about the amount of sleep kids need to stay healthy. In a related story, The Citizen in Auburn, New York has a feature about sleep for teenagers. All this is more in the continuing efforts of the National Sleep Foundation as they gear up for National Sleep Awareness Week, Mar 28 - Apr 3. Also, from Expatica Magazine in Brussels Belgium we hear three out of four school children sleep during class. I think this all boils down to parental responsibility. In today's society, we can't take for granted that our children will get the sleep they need. Are your kids sleeping enough? Have you asked? Chances are, they need your help. -Shawn

How to avoid a drunk driving conviction

2005-03-22T09:14:00.000-05:00

In Tuesday news we hear about a sheriff's deputy in Tallahassee, Florida who crashed into a parked car injuring himself and others. His excuse? Sleep apnea. The only problem is, the guy staggered away from the scene and smelled like alcohol. Sorry officer Darnell, but those aren't symptoms of sleep apnea. No matter, his story convinced his buddies in the Tallahassee police department not to test him for drunk driving.

In other news the Springfield, Mo News Leader has wrapped up the "Sleep Challenge" series we've been following. What they learned? To adjust their lives so that sleep is a priority instead of an afterthought. Good advice for everyone. -Shawn

Blue Monday

2005-03-21T11:26:00.000-05:00

It's Monday and, for many, this is Spring Break week. I got caught in the rush at DC's National airport this morning. It's amazing to me why all those girls going to Florida need so much luggage. Do bikini's take up that much space?

In sleep news, there are several stories about how to prepare for the hour of sleep we'll lose when Daylight Saving Time hops in on April 3. Most of the stories are the result of press releases put out by the National Sleep Foundation. Here's one from Xinhua, China! Also, Reuters is running a story about the increased liklihood of heart attacks in men with sleep apnea. My favorite story today comes from England's News 24. It's about a woman who was awakened by the sound of her husband mowing the lawn in his sleep while completely naked. The funny thing is, she didn't wake him up! Hope your week is off to a great start! -Shawn

Green Haze

2005-03-18T10:47:00.000-05:00

Okay, so staying up all night playing music before a 7:00AM meeting isn't the best sleep hygiene, but St. Patrick's day only comes once a year!

In Friday sleep news we hear about a Barclay Poll of small business owners that finds many have their sleep interrupted nightly due to worry. ABC News is running a story about why treating sleep apnea helps diabetes. The National Sleep Foundation is gearing up for National Sleep Awareness Week and distributing press releases which are being picked up around the country. Here's one in the Portland Press Herald and another at YahooNews. I'm off to Washington DC this weekend. Looking forward to a late afternoon flight to, um, catch up on sleep! Have a great weekend. -Shawn

Erin Go Blog!

2005-03-17T08:47:00.000-05:00

Happy St. Paddy's day. I didn't wear green, I figure with my name, I shouldn't have to! I probably will to the gig tonight, along with my button that says, "I'm Irish if you're buying."

In sleep news, the Detroit Free Press tells partiers to get lots of sleep in order to ward off the "green haze." There's research from Finland showing that sleep deprivation activates our bodies' defense mechanisms. Finally, from Wales we hear that lack of sleep is creating an "anxiety society," and that "heavy drinking women forgot important short-term information, and could not withhold a response that could be "inappropriate under the circumstances." Hmmm. -Shawn

Women & Snoring

2005-03-16T09:10:00.000-05:00

In today's sleep news we hear from Scotsman.com why women are more likely to put up with snoring than men. Obviously, it's a universal problem.

From Western Austrailia we hear that sleep apnea can be a cause of automobile accidents. As reported in Medical News Today, Children's Hospital of Philadelphia advises parents on how they and their young children can get more sleep. The Fairfax, Virginia Times is reporting on sleepy kids in their community, and 365Gay.com advises readers to sleep more in order to stay thin. Enjoy, -Shawn

Good Questions!

2005-03-14T09:14:00.000-05:00

Some recent letters

Hi Shawn,
I found you on the internet without searching for a location and read your entire site before I saw that you're from Knoxville. I'm from Farragut! I know that I have sleep apnea. I wake up gasping all the time and sometimes I actually have to get out of bed completely in order to pull myself out of the cycle. Even worse, my husband says that I snore like a freight train. After reading all the symptoms, I know now this is exactly my problem. My question is, what do I do? I am 40 pounds overweight. Will losing it solve the problem?
Frantic in Farragut

Hi Fran --
You've asked a question that I'm sure is first on the minds of many people who read this site. My advice is that you talk to your doctor as soon as possible. While losing weight might help, you're fighting an uphill battle. Sleep apnea slows down your metabolism, drains your body of energy, and makes it very difficult to exercise. On the flip side, I've seen people drop 50-100 lbs after successful treatement of their sleep apnea. If you have apnea, and it sounds like you might, you need treatment which will include a sleep study. Ask your doctor to send you to a sleep center that has a board certified sleep physician. There are several in your area. Don't delay, life-changing help is readily available.
-Shawn

-------

Dear Shawn,
For about 5 years I have suffered from terrible insomnia. I can usually get off to sleep fine, but I wake up at 2:00 or 3:00 AM and find it impossible to go back to sleep. I am a military veteran and use the VA hospital doctors for health care. They don't seem to interested in helping me with my insomnia. I haven't seen much information about the usefullness of a sleep study for insomnia. Do you think it would help?
Sleepless in Syracuse

Dear Sleepless --
I'm not a doctor, so I strongly suggest you speak with a board certified sleep physician about your problem. Most everyone experiences bouts of insomnia from time-to-time, but 5 years is way to long to suffer with this disorder. A sleep physician would first look into your history to see if there might be extrinsic reasons for your sleepless nights. The doctor might ask you to maintain a sleep diary or log that will shed more light on your sleep habits. Polysomnography (a sleep study) is often necessary to rule out any underlying cause or disease. Finally, the doctor will form a treatment plan for you that may include medications, disease treatment if necessary, behavioral modification, relaxation techniques, or other forms of therapy. It's terrible to suffer from night after sleepless night. There is help available. Talk to your doctor about this problem.
-Shawn

How do you spell P-O-L-Y-S-O-M-N-O-G-R-A-P-H-Y?

2005-03-11T09:17:00.000-05:00

Polysomnography is the scientific term for a sleep study. A polysomnographic technologist conducts sleep studies. Derived from Greek roots, poly means "many" and is used frequently in scientific or medical terminology, as in polycystic (many cysts) or polygenic (many genes). Somno means sleep as in somnolence (sleepiness) or somnambulate (sleep walk). In simple terms, polysomnography means many sleep graphs. There's lots more information about polysomnography on my sleep page. Now, could someone explain: pneumonoultramicroscopicsilicovolcanoconiosis?

In Friday sleep news, it looks like the American Academy of Sleep Medicine has worked out the bugs in their new education site Sleepeducation.com. Unfortunately, they're a bit behind on the news, but you already know where to come for that! The news services are still getting mileage out of the study we blogged about Monday that shows how much sleep people get in different parts of the world. From the Washington Times we learn that people in Portugal pull the most late nights. Have a great weekend! -Shawn

Sleepy Students

2005-03-09T09:15:00.000-05:00

[Knoxville, TN] In Wednesday news it looks like students in Milwaukee high schools are about to get more sleep thanks to a proposal from the school board there. (Cheers!) The only problem is, they also want to start elementary schools 75 minutes earlier! (Jeers!) Maybe some day people in our country will learn how damaging these early start times are to our kids. It looks like the enlightened folks in Ithica, NY are taking some steps in the right direction. (Cheers!) Also, there's word from Bejing, China that three out of four professional women in China do not get enough sleep. I'm sure that's true in the U.S. as well. Finally, some of my fellow bloggers are having fun with the story of George Bush Sr and Bill Clinton's sleeping situation on their recent tsunami tour. For some reason, I just can't imagine Bill sleeping on the floor. But who knows! -Shawn

Night train to zombieville

2005-03-08T11:04:00.000-05:00

Today there's news that railroad work in Wisconsin may soon rob residents of sleep. Why is this blogworthy? Because it's in a newspaper in Kerala, India! There are more and more new sleep doctors coming from India. Don't underestimate them. They may be better informed about sleep habits in the US than doctors who've always lived here!

Also today, there's a story in the Yuma Sun about how simple lifestyle changes may effect sleep. My favorite story of the day is from MSNBC about the millions of Americans with undiagnosed sleep disorders. Have a great Tuesday! -Shawn