SLEEP PART 1 Flashcards
describe brain waves
reflect the pattern of electrical activity (neuronal firing) in cerebral post-synaptic neurons upon which higher mental functions are based; everyone has unique pattern
how are waves described
frequency (Hz) + amplitude (synchronization of many neurons, not amount of electrical activity of individual neurons)
describe an electroencephalogram (EEG)
recording of brain waves as they spread to cerebral cortical areas; used to diagnose epilepsy, sleep disorders, and determine occurrence of brain deathh
what are the four types of brain waves
beta (mentally alert, highest frequency), alpha (awake, but relaxed), theta (deeply relaxed - zoned out), delta (sleep; low F, highest A)
what does higher synchronization of brain waves mean
doing less
web do changes in brain waves occur
age, sensory stimuli, brain disease, chemical state of body
what do bran wave abnormalities indicate
delta waves in awake adults = brain damage, epilepsy, tumors, metabolic abnormalities
what is the awake state mediated by
the reticular activating system
what does the reticular activation system do
relays any sensory input that goes to the brain to the cerebral cortex
what arouses the RAS
pain, touch and pressure, limb movement, bright light, special senses
what does the thalamus do
relays everything to cortex; related to if we even want to relay something
describe consciousness state while sleeping
partial unconsciousness where a person can be aroused and brought to full consciousness with a stimulus
describe brain activity while asleep
most cortical activity depressed; HR, respiration, BP continue
what are the physiological effects of sleep
reduced sympathetic activity and muscle tone, body temp + energy loss drop, increased GH for repair, maintain normal CNS function, skin + tissue repair
what makes us sleepy
adenosine build=up
