delayed-sleep-phase-syndrom : Symptoms, Causes, Treatment & Prevention

What is Delayed sleep phase syndrome (dsps)?

Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome (DSPS) is a sleep disorder where a person’s circadian ryhthm (sleep/wake cycle) is delayed from the typical day/night cycle. People with delayed sleep phase have a natural inclination to go to bed later and wake up later than what is typically considered normal.

What are the causes of Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome?

The exact cause of this disorder is not completely known. However, approximately 7 percent to 16 percent of adolescents have DSPS. Thus, it is a common disorder. Scientists think DSPS may be an exaggerated reaction to the normal shift in the internal clocks that is seen in adolescents after puberty. It is important to understand that this is not deliberate behavior, but that certain habits can make this condition worse. DSPS most commonly occurs during adolescence, but cases have been reported during childhood.

What are the symptoms of Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome?

Symptoms of DSPS include:

• Inability to fall asleep
• Inability to wake up at the desired time and excessive daytime sleepiness.
• Generally no other sleep problems
• Depression and behavior problems

How is Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome diagnosed?

DSPS is diagnosed based solely on a description of the symptoms and sleep logs. Sometimes a non-invasive wrist-watch-like device called an autograph may be used to confirm rest-activity rhythms. An overnight sleep study (polysomnogram) may be recommended to rule out the presence of any other sleep disorders if the history is suggestive. Sophisticated tests of melatonin or core temperature rhythms are generally reserved for research purposes.

How is Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome treated?

Treatment for DSPS involves the following:-

• Good sleep habits
• Shifting the bedtime schedule
• Advancing the internal clock
• Delaying the internal clock (“Chronotherapy”)
• Staying motivated to stick with the schedule
• Bright light therapy
• Avoidance of light at night
• Medications