IckeREMsömn

IckeREMsömn is a term used to describe a proposed sleep pattern in which rapid eye movement (REM) sleep is persistently reduced or absent. The name combines “icke,” meaning not, with “REM-sömn,” the Swedish term for REM sleep, signaling a non-REM–dominant sleep architecture. As a concept, it is not widely recognized as a formal clinical diagnosis.

Characteristics commonly associated with IckeREMsömn (in discussions or hypothetical frameworks) include dominance of non-REM sleep stages, little to no REM periods on polysomnography, and a reduced presence of REM-related phenomena such as dreams with typical REM characteristics. Individuals described in speculative contexts may report fewer dreams or dreams that are less vivid, although dream experiences can vary and are not consistently tied to REM presence.

Causes and contributing factors are discussed in theoretical terms and may include pharmacological influences (for example, medications that suppress REM sleep), chronic circadian disruption, sleep deprivation with high sleep pressure, or certain neurological or mood-related conditions. However, there is no consensus on a singular cause or mechanism, and many factors can influence REM sleep in common clinical settings.

Diagnosis and research status: IckeREMsömn is not an established clinical entity with formal diagnostic criteria. In practice, a reduced REM sleep pattern can occur as a secondary feature of other sleep disorders or medical conditions. Researchers emphasize that any suggested concept of IckeREMsömn requires robust, peer-reviewed study before it could be incorporated into standard sleep medicine.

Management, if discussed in hypothetical terms, would focus on addressing underlying causes, optimizing sleep hygiene, and reviewing medications that may impact REM sleep. No specific, evidence-based treatments exist for IckeREMsömn as a standalone condition.