Delayed sleep phase is a condition that affects the body’s internal clock, known as the circadian rhythm. People with this condition fall asleep and wake up later than usual. Sleep and wake times may shift two or more hours beyond typical patterns. This delay can make it difficult to wake up on time for work or school.
What Are the Symptoms of Delayed Sleep Phase Disorder?
People with delayed sleep phase usually fall asleep and wake up later than their typical sleep schedules.
Sleep and wake times are delayed by at least two hours. In some cases, the delay may reach three to six hours. For example, a person may fall asleep at 3 a.m. and wake up at 10 a.m. These delays last for at least three months and often continue for years.
Common symptoms include:
- Difficulty falling asleep at a typical bedtime, known as insomnia
- Trouble waking up in the morning for work or school
- Extreme daytime drowsiness
- Difficulty staying alert during the day
Why Does This Disease Occur?
- Delayed sleep phase occurs when a person’s internal clock becomes out of sync with the environment
- Environmental cues influence the sleep-wake cycle. These cues include light, darkness, eating habits, and physical activity
- The exact cause of delayed sleep phase is not known
- Circadian rhythms may become delayed in teenagers for biological reasons. Staying up late to do homework, watch television, or spend time online may worsen the delay
Who Is at Risk of This Disease?
Delayed sleep phase can affect children and adults of any age. However, the condition is more common among teenagers and young adults.
What Are the Possible Complications?
- Teenagers with delayed sleep phase may experience complications. These include poor academic performance and behavioral problems
- The condition has also been associated with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD)
- Delayed sleep phase has also been linked with autism spectrum disorder
- Teenagers and adults with this condition often experience depression and anxiety
When Should You See a Doctor?
- Consult a healthcare professional if symptoms of delayed sleep phase continue
- Parents should also seek medical advice if a child exhibits these symptoms and they do not resolve
- Medical advice is also recommended if a person regularly has trouble waking up in the morning or experiences excessive daytime drowsiness
How Is This Disease Diagnosed?
To diagnose delayed sleep phase, also called delayed sleep-wake phase disorder, a healthcare professional reviews family and medical history
- A physical examination may also be performed
- Several tests may help diagnose delayed sleep phase or related conditions.
- Actigraphy tracks sleep and wake times over several days
- A sleep diary may be kept for a week or longer
- If another sleep condition is suspected, a sleep study (Polysomnography) may be recommended. It monitors brain activity, heart rate, oxygen levels, eye movements, and breathing during sleep
What Are the Treatment Options?
A healthcare professional works with the patient to develop a treatment plan that adjusts sleep and wake times.
- Patients should go to bed and wake up on a regular schedule, including weekends
- Daytime naps should be avoided. Caffeine or alcohol should not be consumed near bedtime. Tobacco products should also be avoided
- Exercise during the day may improve sleep. However, workouts should finish at least two hours before bedtime
- Stimulating activities should be avoided before sleep
- The bedroom should be used only for sleeping and sex
- A healthcare professional may recommend taking melatonin in the early evening to help adjust the circadian rhythm
- Exposure to bright light in the morning, often using a light box, may help adjust the circadian rhythm
- Some healthcare professionals may recommend chronotherapy. This method delays bedtime by one to 2.5 hours every six days until the desired bedtime is reached
How Can This Disease Be Prevented?
- Some lifestyle changes may help prevent delayed sleep phase
- Maintaining a regular bedtime schedule can support healthy sleep
- Limiting bright light and screens before bedtime may also help improve sleep
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. How long can a delayed sleep phase last?
Sleep and wake delays last at least three months and may continue for years.
Q2. Can a delayed sleep phase affect children and adults?
Yes. The condition can affect people of any age, but is more common in teenagers and young adults.
Important Note: This information is for awareness purposes only. Please consult a healthcare professional for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
