Circadian Health Glossary
Sleep Pressure
Sleep pressure refers to the biological drive to sleep that builds up the longer you stay awake. It is regulated by the body’s homeostatic sleep system, which works alongside the circadian rhythm to ensure adequate rest and recovery.
How Does Sleep Pressure Work?
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Adenosine Build-Up: As you stay awake, adenosine—a chemical promoting sleep—accumulates in the brain, increasing sleep pressure.
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Relief During Sleep: Sleep reduces adenosine levels, relieving sleep pressure and restoring wakefulness.
Why Is Sleep Pressure Important?
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Sleep Timing: A balance between sleep pressure and circadian rhythm signals determines when you feel sleepy or alert.
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Ease of Falling Asleep: Excessive sleep pressure, resulting from prolonged wakefulness or insufficient rest, can be leveraged as a strategy to facilitate sleep onset, particularly in managing jet lag or shift work adjustments.
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Sleep Disorders: Disruptions to sleep pressure regulation, especially if frequent, can contribute to insomnia or excessive daytime sleepiness.