Circadian Rhythm (also known as the internal body clock) is a biological cycle which takes place in most living things. This cycle is related to the exposure to light from the sun (awake during day, sleeping during night) and also regulates things like hormones and body temperature.
A circadian rhythm sleep disorder happens in the system when people either by their own actions or due to reasons of life disrupt or go against this internal body clock. So for example someone staying up late at night watching TV is creating a disruption in the circadian rhythm of his or her body.
Reasons behind the Sleep Disorder
In general all actions which regularly disturb the cycle will cause a problem.
- Going to bed very late
- Clubbing and dancing all night or partying in general
- Working in night shifts or various shifts including night shifts
- Various medications and chemicals can disturb the cycle such as caffeine
- Moving to a different time zone
- Other illnesses such as sleep deprivation preventing one to sleep when needed
- The most famous one – Jet Lag
- Shift Work Sleep Disorder
- (ASPS) Advanced Sleep Phase Syndrome
- (DSPS) Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome
The different kinds of Circadian Rhythm Sleep Disorder
Below are the symptoms you would expect to see when someone has a Circadian Rhythm Sleep Disorder:
Circadian Rhythm Sleep Disorder Symptoms
- Having a hard time getting to sleep, suffering from Insomnia or Sleep Deprivation
- Constantly waking up at night and not getting proper sleep
- Light sleeping – can wake up easily – not getting into the deep sleep
- Feeling sleepy during the day
- Having difficulty focusing or concentrating – lack of energy
- A general noticeable weakness in performance – counting slower, not observing as well, etc
- Clear reduction in reaction time or reflexes
- Headaches
- Gastrointestinal distress
Circadian rhythm sleep disorder symptoms can be numerous but they all have in common the fact that whatever event or action is preventing the person from sleeping at the right time and being awake and full of energy during the day, which then has a direct consequence on the proper functioning of the body.
