Sleep well, live well
CIRCADIAN RHYTHM DISORDERS
Facebook
Twitter
LinkedIn
Pinterest
Reddit
VK
OK
Digg
WhatsApp
Email
Table of Contents
Circadian rhythms are 24-hour natural rhythms in the body. These internal rhythms are matched to the outside light-dark cycle. When there is a disruption of the internal system, or there is a mismatch between the body’s circadian rhythm and the outside environment, a circadian rhythm sleep disorder may occur.
KEY POINTS
A long-standing pattern of sleep-wake disturbance can occur from a circadian system disruption or misalignment, called a circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorder.
Circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorders can contribute to insomnia, sleepiness and safety concerns, as well as other health consequences such as obesity and diabetes.
These disorders can be treated with a variety of medications, bright light therapy and behavior treatments.
Your doctor may evaluate your sleep using an overnight sleep study or actigraphy, which measures body movement and activity.
These disorders can be treated with a variety of medications, bright light therapy and behavior treatments.
Am I At Risk ?
People who have a higher risk for circadian disorders include teenagers and the elderly. Others who are at risk include those who work irregular or rotating shifts, travel frequently, or are blind.
GENERAL OVERVIEW
Circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorders can make it difficult to fall asleep when you go to bed. They also can make it hard to stay awake when you need to be alert. These disorders can lead to social problems. They also can hinder your job and school performance and can pose a safety risk. There are several types of circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorders.
- Delayed sleep-wake phase disorder: You tend to fall asleep and wake up much later than is desired or required. This disorder is common in teens.
- Advanced sleep-wake phase disorder: You tend to fall asleep and wake up much earlier than is desired or required. This pattern is common in older adults.
- Irregular sleep-wake rhythm disorder: There is no clear circadian sleep-wake rhythm. This disorder is common in older adults with dementia and in
- Non-24-hour sleep-wake rhythm disorder: There is a progressively delayed sleep-wake pattern. It may occur in more than half of people who are blind. It can occur occasionally in sighted people as well.
Tips
Other factors can lead to problems with your sleep schedule. A work schedule that overlaps with your usual bedtime can result in shift work disorder. Travel by airplane across two or more time zones can cause jet lag disorder.
Maintain a consistent sleep-wake schedule, including weekends and vacations.
Track the timing of your sleep by using a sleep diary for 2 weeks.
Do not spend a lot of time awake in bed. Get out of bed if you have trouble falling asleep. Try reading a book or doing another relaxing activity that will help you feel sleepy.
Do not take more than a 20-minute nap during the day.
Limit caffeine and alcohol and do not smoke.
Next Steps
- The treatment for each circadian rhythm sleep-wake disorder is different. Circadian rhythm disorders are best managed by a board-certified sleep medicine physician. Talk to your doctor about your sleep schedule and sleep quality. Your doctor may refer you to a sleep doctor at a comprehensive sleep disorders center. Be sure to bring your completed sleep diary with you to the appointment. This information will help your sleep doctor identify the exact problem.
QUESTIONS ABOUT A SLEEP ISSUE? LET’S TALK.
Imtiaz Ahmad, MD, MPH, FCCP
Dr. Imtiaz Ahmad is a highly qualified physician, Board Certified in Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine. He has been actively serving the community of Lee County, Florida since 2004, with a strong focus on a proactive healthcare approach. Dr. Ahmad has received advanced training from some of the most prestigious institutions, including Harvard University, Cornell University, State University of New York at Brooklyn, and the University of Mississippi. SOMNAS is a medical facility that is committed to improving and maintaining the health of patients with sleep disorders. The expert team at SOMNAS is known for their compassionate and high-quality care. They offer unparalleled treatment and care to patients on the Gulf Coast of Florida, ensuring a better and healthier life for them.
Job Title: Board Certified in Pulmonary Medicine
