CBT-I Sleep Physiology & Disorders 2

Question 1

Which neurotransmitter system is primarily responsible for promoting wakefulness and is targeted by medications like modafinil?

Accepted Answer

Dopamine

Answer

Dopamine is a key wakefulness-promoting neurotransmitter, and modafinil works largely by blocking dopamine reuptake.

Question 2

A patient reports waking up with a dry mouth, morning headaches, and their bed partner notices loud snoring. Which sleep disorder is most likely?

Accepted Answer

Obstructive sleep apnea

Answer

Obstructive sleep apnea classically presents with snoring, witnessed apneas, morning headaches, and dry mouth from mouth breathing.

Question 3

During which sleep stage does the majority of slow-wave sleep (SWS) occur in a typical night?

Accepted Answer

First third of the night

Answer

Slow-wave sleep predominates in the first third of the night, while REM sleep predominates in the last third.

Question 4

What is the term for the physiological drive to sleep that builds continuously during waking hours and dissipates during sleep?

Accepted Answer

Homeostatic sleep pressure

Answer

Homeostatic sleep pressure (Process S) accumulates adenosine during wakefulness and clears during sleep.

Question 5

A person who cannot fall asleep until 3 AM but then sleeps normally until 11 AM is most likely experiencing which condition?

Accepted Answer

Delayed sleep phase disorder

Answer

Delayed sleep phase disorder is characterized by a persistent delay in sleep timing that is stable but misaligned with social demands.

(CBT-I) CBT Insomnia Certification Practice Test