Abstract
Circadian rhythm sleep disorders are characterized by a desynchronization between the intrinsic circadian clock and the extrinsic light-dark cycle. As a result, symptoms of excessive sleepiness and insomnia can lead to significant impairment of daytime functioning. The six currently recognized circadian rhythm sleep disorders may involve either a primary abnormality of the patient's circadian clock or a normal functioning circadian clock with a newly changed external physical environment. Both light therapy and melatonin can be used strategically to realign the patient's endogenous sleep-wake cycle with the preferred sleep-wake schedule. Continued research of the underlying pathophysiology of circadian rhythm sleep disorders may lead to improved treatment strategies.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 989-1007 |
Number of pages | 19 |
Journal | Psychiatric Clinics of North America |
Volume | 29 |
Issue number | 4 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Dec 2006 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Psychiatry and Mental health