What does REM stand for in the context of sleep stages?

In the context of sleep stages, REM stands for Rapid Eye Movement. This phase of sleep is characterized by the rapid movement of the eyes beneath the eyelids, which can be observed during periods of vivid dreaming. REM sleep plays a crucial role in various physiological and psychological functions, including memory consolidation, learning, and emotional processing.

During this stage, brain activity levels increase, resembling those of wakefulness, and the body experiences temporary muscle atonia, which prevents individuals from acting out their dreams. REM sleep typically begins about 90 minutes after falling asleep and recurs multiple times throughout the night, with each episode growing longer as the sleep cycle progresses. Understanding the nature and importance of REM sleep is essential for polysomnographic technicians, as it is a vital component of overall sleep architecture.