Circadian rhythm sleep disorders

Circadian rhythm sleep disorders are a group of sleep disorders that are characterized by disruptions to the natural sleep-wake cycle, or circadian rhythm. The circadian rhythm is a natural internal process that regulates the sleep-wake cycle, and it is influenced by environmental factors such as light and temperature. When the circadian rhythm is disrupted, it can lead to difficulties falling asleep and waking up at appropriate times, as well as other symptoms such as fatigue and decreased alertness during the day.

Types

There are several different types of circadian rhythm sleep disorders, including delayed sleep phase syndrome, advanced sleep phase syndrome, non-24-hour sleep-wake disorder, and irregular sleep-wake rhythm. Each type of disorder is characterized by a different type of disruption to the sleep-wake cycle, and each requires a different approach to treatment.

Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome

Delayed sleep phase syndrome (DSPS) is a disorder in which a person's natural sleep-wake cycle is shifted several hours later than the typical 24-hour day, causing them to have difficulty falling asleep and waking up at socially acceptable times. This can lead to difficulties with work or school schedules, and it can have a negative impact on a person's social life. Treatment for DSPS typically involves a combination of behavioral therapy and medication, and may include light therapy or chronotherapy.
Advanced sleep phase syndrome (ASPS) is a disorder in which a person's natural sleep-wake cycle is shifted several hours earlier than the typical 24-hour day, causing them to have difficulty staying awake in the evening and early morning hours. Treatment for ASPS typically involves a combination of behavioral therapy and medication, and may include light therapy or chronotherapy.
Non-24-hour sleep-wake disorder is a disorder in which a person's natural sleep-wake cycle is longer than 24 hours, causing their sleep-wake schedule to shift later and later each day. This can lead to difficulty falling asleep and waking up at appropriate times, as well as other symptoms such as fatigue and decreased alertness during the day. Treatment for non-24-hour sleep-wake disorder typically involves a combination of behavioral therapy and medication.
Irregular sleep-wake rhythm is a disorder in which a person's sleep-wake cycle is fragmented and lacks a consistent pattern. This can lead to difficulties with work or school schedules, and it can have a negative impact on a person's social life. Treatment for irregular sleep-wake rhythm typically involves a combination of behavioral therapy and medication.

Also see

Shift work sleep disorder

At W8MD Weight Loss, Sleep and MedSpa, we understand the importance of treating circadian rhythm sleep disorders. Our Sleep Medicine Program uses state-of-the-art technology, including convenient home sleep studies or in-lab sleep diagnostic studies, to diagnose and treat over 80 different sleep disorders, including circadian rhythm sleep disorders. Our team of board-certified sleep medicine physicians, nurse practitioners, and physician assistants work with each patient to develop an individualized treatment plan that addresses their unique sleep needs.

W8MD's other services

In addition to our sleep medicine program, we also offer a comprehensive weight loss program that can help patients manage other health conditions that may be contributing to their sleep disorders. Our physician-supervised weight loss program uses evidence-based strategies to help patients achieve and maintain a healthy weight, which can improve sleep quality and reduce the symptoms of sleep disorders such as circadian rhythm sleep disorders.

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W8MD Weight Loss, Sleep & Medspa Centers

W8MD Weight Loss, Sleep & Medspa Centers is a network of medical centers located in New York, Pennsylvania, New Jersey and surrounding areas that provide comprehensive care for weight loss, sleep disorders, and aesthetic treatments.