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SWS Density

Meaning

A quantitative measure derived from polysomnography that reflects the proportion or intensity of Slow-Wave Sleep (SWS), also known as N3 sleep, within a given nocturnal cycle. High SWS density is physiologically significant because this stage is paramount for the restorative processes, including physical tissue repair and the maximal pulsatile release of Growth Hormone (GH). Reduced density is a hallmark of poor recovery.