sleep rebound
The compensatory increase in a particular sleep stage following its previous deprivation or suppression.
Full Definition
Sleep rebound refers to the physiological compensation that occurs when the body attempts to restore normal sleep architecture after deprivation of specific sleep stages. This phenomenon is most commonly observed with REM rebound, where REM sleep increases in duration and intensity following REM deprivation. Sleep rebound can also occur with slow-wave sleep after total sleep deprivation. The rebound effect demonstrates the body's homeostatic regulation of sleep and is clinically relevant when discontinuing medications that suppress certain sleep stages.
Usage
Usage note: More general term than 'REM rebound'; can apply to any sleep stage compensation.
In Context
- "Following withdrawal of the antidepressant, the patient experienced significant sleep rebound with increased REM activity." — Clinical case notes
- "Sleep rebound effects should be considered when tapering sleep-affecting medications." — Treatment planning