Circadian
Rhythm disorders. are
common and often unrecognized. These
disorders result from loss of synchronization between body’s internal
clock and day-night cycle.
Some of the commonly seen disorders are
1.
Delayed
phase circadian rhythm disorder- This often affects young adults. Patient can not fall asleep until 2-4 AM and
can not get up before 11 AM to 12 noon.
If demands of college or work require them to get up early, they are tired and sleepy the rest of the
day.
2.
Advance
phase circadian rhythm disorder – Patient get irresistible desire to sleep
around 6-8 PM and then they wake up at 2-3 AM. They can not fall back to sleep
no matter how hard they try or take sleeping pills. This interferes with social activities and
may even result in marital difficulties.
3.
Irregular
sleep awake cycle- Older patient and nursing home patients are often
affected. Patient naps often during the
day time and sleep at night is broken in 2-3 hours segments.
Most of these disorders can be easily
corrected. If you think I can be of help
please let me know.