Chronic circadian rhythm sleep disorders are internal abnormalities of the circadian rhythms, the body’s internal clock. They arise when a person is unable to fall asleep at a normal bedtime (late evening), although he/she is able to sleep at other times. The length of the internal circadian cycle can normally be a bit shorter or longer than 24 hours. The cycle is entrained to 24 hours by external factors, especially light. If it cannot be entrained, either because it is too far afield of the normal range, or for other neurological reasons, the result is a circadian disorder. In these disorders, the internal coordination of the various rhythms may also be normal or faulty. For example, some hormones may be on a different cycle than others.

circadian rhythm sleep disorder

Common to these disorders is inflexibility: even when physically tired or sleep-deprived, sufferers cannot make up for lost sleep outside of their hard-wired sleep times. This factor is generally misunderstood by people who do not suffer from these disorders, leading to misunderstanding of what sufferers are up against and a conclusion that they are just lazy or haven’t tried hard enough to live on a normal schedule.

Types of Circadian Rhythm Sleep Disorders

The International Classification of Diseases (ICD-10-CM, 2014) lists 6 subtypes of circadian rhythm sleep disorder:

  • Delayed sleep phase-type.
  • Free-running type.
  • Advanced sleep phase-type.
  • Irregular sleep-wake type.
  • Shift work type.
  • Jet lag type.
  • As well as unspecified, other, and conditions specified elsewhere.

The DSM-V defines Circadian Rhythm Sleep-Wake Disorder as follows:

A persistent or recurrent pattern of sleep disruption that is primarily due to an alteration of the circadian system or to a misalignment between the endogenous circadian rhythm and the sleep-wake schedule required by an individual’s physical environment or social or professional schedule. The sleep disruption leads to excessive sleepiness or insomnia, or both. The sleep disturbance causes clinically significant distress or impairment in social, occupational, and other important areas of functioning.

Treating Circadian Rhythm Sleep Disorders

Getting a professional diagnosis for what is causing an issue with your circadian rhythm is needed in order to get a treatment plan that will be most effective. Our goal is to find the best solutions for your circadian rhythm disorder. Columbus Sleep Consultants can run a number of tests to accurately diagnose and create a comprehensive treatment plan. Call us today if you have been experiencing sleep difficulties.

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