Exploring the Impact of Circadian Rhythm Disorders on Sleep
The body’s internal clock, known as a circadian rhythm, is responsible for regulating a person’s sleep and wake cycle. When this rhythm becomes disrupted or imbalanced it can lead to a circadian rhythm disorder. These disorders can affect those suffering from them in a variety of ways, particularly in terms of their sleep patterns. Disruptions to these rhythms can lead to difficulties both initiating and maintaining sleep, as well as a range of other side effects.
These disorders are usually related to environmental, psychological or physiological factors, including lifestyle choices, jet lag and other travel, medical causes and hereditary factors. Treatment for circadian rhythm disorders can include cognitive behavioural therapy, light therapy, specifically timed medication and adjusting lifestyle choices.
It is important to remember that circadian rhythm disorders are not inherently attached to any particular disease. Therefore, to understand the impact of this disorder on sleep, it is important to explore how it affects individuals on a deeper level.
What is Circadian Rhythm?
Circadian rhythm, often referred to as the body clock, is a natural, internal process that regulates the sleep-wake cycle and certain physiological changes in the body. This cycle is set within every individual, and the clock runs in the background of the body, even when a person is unconscious. It is believed to be regulated by both intrinsic factors, or a persons own personal cycle, as well as external factors, like sunlight, stressors and external schedules.
Those with healthy circadian rhythms typically experience consistent sleep patterns that govern themselves responsibly. In comparison, those with sleep disorders or circadian disruptions may experience changes in their sleep patterns, or difficulty initiating or maintaining a regular sleeping cycle.
What Causes Circadian Rhythm Disorders?
There are a handful of possible causes of circadian rhythm disorders, which can range from lifestyle changes and jet lag to psychological issues and hereditary factors. Some of the most common causes include.
- Excessive exposure to artificial light from electronics
- Irregular work schedules
- Changes to external environment due to travelling and/or relocation
- Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)
- Mental health problems
- Prescription medications
- A diagnosed medical condition, such as Alzheimer’s or dementia
- Hormonal imbalances or issues with the thyroid
Treatment for Circadian Rhythm Sleep Disorders
Treatment for circadian rhythm disorders can depend on the severity of the condition, the underlying cause, and the preference of the individual. Treatment options for this disorder can range from lifestyle changes to cognitive behavioral therapy and medical treatments.
Lifestyle changes can include methods such as trying to maintain a regular sleep-wake schedule in accordance with internal clocks and avoiding the use of electronic devices in the evening as well as getting regular exercise. Additionally, light therapy, specifically timed medication and cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT) can also prove helpful in managing circadian rhythm disorders.
It is important to note that there are multiple effective ways to manage and treat circadian rhythm disorders. Talking to a doctor or trained sleep specialist is encouraged if individuals are feeling as though their sleep is affected.
Conclusion
Circadian rhythm disruptions can cause serious effects on an individual’s sleep, which can cause a cascading effect on their physical and mental health. Understanding this disorder is the key to managing it, and it is important to note that there are multiple effective treatments for circadian rhythm disorders, depending on the individual and their preferences. Finding the right balance of lifestyle changes, medication, and CBT can help to treat and manage this disorder.