Blind People Often Sleep Poorly; Research Shines Light on Therapy

Article Abstract:

The absence of regular daylight exposure can significantly disrupt the sleep-wake cycles of blind people. The body relies on light exposure to reset the circadian rhythm, which naturally runs on a cycle slightly longer than 24 hours. Blind people with no light perception may find they have difficulty maintaining a consistent sleep-wake pattern from day to day, and as many as 80% of totally-blind people report disturbed sleep. The body may perceive light through the skin as well as the eyes, and researchers have experimented with light at the back of the knee in an attempt to influence the biological clock. The hormone melatonin helps to regulate the sleep-wake cycle, and supplementation may help patients to sleep at night.

Health aspects, Physiological aspects, Environmental aspects, Blind, Blind persons, Melatonin, Sleep-wake cycle, Daylight

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Studies of sleep in strange places may benefit people with common ills

Article Abstract:

Research on sleep habits in unusual places was reported at the 1996 meeting of the American Sleep Disorders Association and Sleep Research Society. One group has been studying the effect of space travel on sleep by collecting data from astronauts on space shuttle missions. Another has studied the effects of shift work by studying sailors on submarines. Researchers in Boston have designed computer-controlled apartments to study the effect of light on circadian rhythms. And the Sleep Heart Health Study will study sleep apnea and its relationship to cardiovascular disease.

Research, Sleep

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ADHD often undiagnosed in adults: appropriate treatment may benefit work, family, social life

Article Abstract:

Doctors discussed the diagnosis and treatment of attention deficit-hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in adults at the annual meeting of the American Psychiatric Association. About 3% to 7% of adults have ADHD but many are not diagnosed because ADHD is believed to affect mostly children. This is unfortunate, since many adults can benefit from medications and psychotherapy.

Adults, Care and treatment, Diagnosis, Attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder, Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder

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