The Neurological Sleep Clinic focuses on various sleep disorders that are not related to sleep-disordered breathing. It works in collaboration with the Respiratory Sleep Clinic and the Sleep Laboratory that operates for patient visits. Sleep comprises about one-third of our lifetime, and its role in maintaining overall health and daily functioning is of utmost significance. In recent years, medical advancements have highlighted the importance of sleep, leading to the continuous development and renewal of the field. Numerous studies demonstrate the brain's functions during sleep and the impact of sleep on cognitive functions. Different sleep disorders can also predict various neurological diseases, which may aid in early diagnosis and treatment guidance.
The Neurological Sleep Clinic specializes in the following issues:
1. Primary Hypersomnolence and Narcolepsy.
2. Sleep Timing and Circadian Rhythm Disorders.
3. Sleep Movement Disorders: Restless Leg Syndrome, Myoclonic Jerks during sleep, and more.
4. Parasomnias: Abnormal behaviors during sleep in any stage.
5. Behavioral Intervention and Pharmacological Treatment for Insomnia.
6. Disorders of Arousal, such as sleepwalking.
* It is recommended to bring a sleep diary that describes sleep patterns for at least a week during the first visit.
Tips for Better Sleep:
Tip #1:
Spending too much time in bed does not guarantee better sleep. Sleeping too little can cause daytime sleepiness and a decrease in concentration. However, spending too much time in bed reduces the sleep's ability to promote feelings of freshness. It can "reset" the biological clock and lead to sleep disturbances the following night.
Tip #2:
Go to sleep only when feeling tired and wake up at the same time every day, including weekends. Maintaining a regular schedule helps establish a proper body rhythm of wakefulness-sleep.
Tip #3:
Caffeine, whether from coffee, tea, cola, or chocolate, is a stimulant that remains in the body for about 6 hours and can interfere with sleep if consumed too late.
Tip #4:
It is advisable to avoid heavy meals about 3 hours before bedtime but not go to bed hungry.
Tip #5:
Alcohol consumption, in moderation, might help you fall asleep faster, but in the second half of the night when the body metabolizes alcohol, it can cause fragmented sleep with excessive dreaming, sweating, headaches, and increased snoring. Alcohol exacerbates sleep-disordered breathing and worsens nightmares.
Tip #6:
Physical exercise can improve sleep. The most recommended time for physical activity is 3-6 hours before bedtime (depending on the exercise).
Tip #7:
Taking clocks out of the bedroom. Clock-watching "kills" sleep. It causes emotional reactions and can increase awakenings. Removing the "time pressure" improves sleep.
Tip #8:
The bedroom is a sleep fortress. The bed and bedroom are intended solely for sleep. Exceptions are intimate relationships and dressing. However, watching television, using the phone, working, playing computer games, eating, etc., should not occur in the bedroom. The room should have a cool and pleasant temperature.