Wake up

From WikiMD's Food, Medicine & Wellness Encyclopedia

Wake up is a term that refers to the transition from sleep to wakefulness. It is a process that involves various physiological changes in the body, including increased heart rate, blood pressure, and body temperature. The process of waking up is regulated by the circadian rhythm, which is the body's internal clock that regulates sleep-wake cycles.

Physiology of Waking Up[edit | edit source]

The process of waking up is regulated by the circadian rhythm, which is influenced by external cues such as light and temperature. The circadian rhythm regulates the release of hormones such as melatonin, which promotes sleep, and cortisol, which promotes wakefulness.

When it's time to wake up, the body starts to increase its temperature and heart rate. The brain also starts to become more active, particularly in areas associated with alertness and attention. This is facilitated by the release of certain neurotransmitters, such as norepinephrine and serotonin.

Factors Affecting Wake Up Process[edit | edit source]

Several factors can affect the wake up process. These include:

  • Sleep deprivation: Lack of sleep can make it harder to wake up and can lead to feelings of grogginess and fatigue.
  • Sleep disorders: Conditions such as insomnia and sleep apnea can disrupt the sleep-wake cycle and make it difficult to wake up.
  • Stress: High levels of stress can interfere with the body's circadian rhythm and affect the wake up process.
  • Alcohol and drugs: These substances can disrupt the sleep-wake cycle and affect the quality of sleep, making it harder to wake up.

See Also[edit | edit source]

Wake up Resources
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Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD