Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome (DSPS) is a chronic disorder characterized by delayed sleep-wake cycle. People with DSPS have difficulty sleeping at regular bedtimes and waking up at a desired time. Generally, it affects teenagers, though it can also affect adults too.
The cause of DSPS is still unknown, though research shows it may be due to a discrepancy in melatonin production and the body’s circadian rhythm. People with DSPS have their own individual sleep-wake cycle and an inner body clock that runs on a different schedule.
DSPS is a serious disorder leading to many tragic difficulties in life. Common symptoms associated with it include difficulty getting to sleep before midnight, feeling very tired during the day, difficulty staying asleep, irritability, suppressed immune system, and difficulty functioning normally throughout the day.
What are the Causes of DSPS?
The specific cause(s) of DSPS is still unknown, though, studies suggest that it is due to a biological predisposition such as chronic insomnia. It may be the result of a disruption in melatonin production or even a reset in the body’s inner clock. Other factors, such as light pollution, stress, or even a genetic disposition can contribute to the development of DSPS.
Light pollution may be one of the major contributing factors to DSPS. Exposure to light late in the evening interferes with the body’s natural melatonin production, which can lead to a disruption in the sleep-wake cycle. Additionally, bright lights from computer and TV screens can interfere with the body’s internal sleep-wake clock.
What are the Symptoms of DSPS?
The most common symptom of DSPS is difficulty sleeping before midnight and waking up at a desired time. Other symptoms include difficulty staying asleep, feeling very tired during the day, irritability, suppressed immune system, and difficulty functioning normally.
People with DSPS will generally feel wide awake after normal bedtimes and have difficulty getting up in the morning to start the day. Additionally, they may also have difficulty concentrating during the day or feeling alert. Irritability is also common due to feeling exhausted from lack of sleep.
DSPS can be a chronic disorder and result in serious difficulties in life, such as fatigue, depression, cognitive impairment, and overall unbalanced and unhealthy lifestyle. Therefore, it’s important to seek advice and treatment if experiencing any of the common symptoms associated with DSPS.
Treatments for DSPS
- Maintain consistency: Have a consistent sleep schedule
- Avoid exposure to light: Especially at night.
- Reduce stress: A naturopath can help
- Exercise: A good way to reduce stress and tire yourself out in the day
- Sleep hygiene: Good sleep hygiene is essential.
- Bright light therapy: A type of light therapy to help reset your internal clock.
Conclusion
Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome is a chronic disorder characterized by delayed sleep-wake cycle, and is usually affects teenagers. The causes of DSPS is still unknown, though research suggest a disruption in melatonin production or the body’s inner clock. If you suspect you have DSPS, various treatments are available to help treat and manage the symptoms.