Video Podcasts

Maryland Health Today

Sleep and Insomnia

Overview:
Sleep is not just beneficial—it is important for survival. Sleep enables the mind and the body to function normally. But getting enough sleep is a difficult problem for many people. In this interview with Ellen Beth Levitt, a sleep expert describes the different stages of sleep, and talks about the causes and latest treatments for insomnia.

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Part One:

Why we need sleep & how much
Sleep stages
REM vs. Non-REM sleep
Dreaming
Circadian rhythms
Shift work strategies

Part Two:

Sleep hygiene
Definition of insomnia
Causes of insomnia
When to see a sleep specialist
Insomnia treatments
- Sleeping pills
- Cognitive therapy
Melatonin

Guest:
Dr. Steven Scharf, a pulmonary specialist and Director of the Sleep Disorders Center at the University of Maryland Medical Center. Dr. Scharf is also a professor of medicine at the University of Maryland School of Medicine.

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This page was last updated on: March 26, 2009.

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