Circadian
Disorders
Your circadian rhythm is your internal clock, in this case, for sleep. When your biological clock is not in synch with your environment, sleep can be affected in a way that leads to short sleep, poor quality sleep, and/or daytime symptoms reflective of that poor sleep. There are six recognized circadian rhythm disorders; you are likely familiar with at least one of them.
Jet Lag
Jet Lag is a common problem when the biological circadian rhythm takes a while to adjust to the new day/night schedule after crossing time zones. It tends to be harder for the body to catch up when travelling east compared with west. There are practical lifestyle adjustments to help adapt more quickly after arriving; some are best started prior to leaving home.
Shift Work Sleep Disorder
Shift Work Sleep Disorder occurs when people must work a variable schedule or during their biological sleep time. It has been estimated that at least one-third of shift workers have shift work sleep disorders. The adverse effects are not only on sleep, which affects job performance, driving safely, and on-the-job injuries, but shift work sleep disorder can increase risks of metabolic, cardiovascular, and mood conditions. There are some behavioral adjustments that can help reduce these risks.
Other circadian sleep disorders include:
Delayed Sleep-Wake Phase Disorder
(common in adolescence)
Advanced Sleep-Wake Phase Disorder
(which is more common in the elderly)
Irregular Sleep-Wake Rhythm Disorder
(more common in neurodegenerative disorders)
Non-24-hour Sleep-Wake Rhythm Disorder
(almost exclusively in sightless adults)
Treatment
Treatment for all circadian rhythm sleep disorders begins with a regular sleep-wake schedule based on a consistent wake time. If possible, it is best to consistently sleep on your intrinsic biologic clock. Bright light exposure and timely light avoidance are also key. Short naps and caffeine may help with daytime function, and properly timed melatonin may also be helpful.
Dr. Jacobs can help rule out other sleep disorders and help you optimize the tools that improve your sleep based on your biological clock and social and/or professional demands.