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Natural short sleeper

Definition

A natural short sleeper is someone who sleeps a lot less in a 24-hour period than is expected for other people of the same age. The person is not excessively sleepy.

Alternative Names

Sleep - natural short sleeper

Causes

Although the individual need for sleep varies quite a bit, the typical adult requires an average of 7 - 10 hours of sleep each night. Short sleepers sleep less than 75% of what is normal for their age, and wake up spontaneously.

Natural short sleepers are different from people who chronically do not get enough sleep because of work or family demands, or who have medical conditions that disrupt sleep.

Symptoms

Natural short sleepers are not excessively tired or sleepy during the day.

Treatment

If you are a "natural short sleeper," who functions effectively during the day, there is no need to see a doctor.

Review Date: 4/25/2008
Reviewed By: Allen J. Blaivas, DO, Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, Department of Veteran Affairs, VA System, East Orange, NY. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network. Also reviewed by David Zieve, MD, MHA, Medical Director, A.D.A.M., Inc.
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