A comprehensive sleep medicine center in Fresno.
Circadian Rhythm Disorder
What is Circadian Rhythm Disorder?
Circadian rhythm disorders occur when your internal body clock is misaligned with your desired sleep schedule, often resulting in difficulty falling asleep, waking up, or feeling rested. This can be caused by shift work, jet lag, or certain medical conditions. Our team offers advanced therapies, such as light therapy and chronotherapy, to help reset your internal clock and synchronize your sleep patterns.
How is Circadian Rhythm Disorder Diagnosed?
Diagnosing a circadian rhythm disorder involves evaluating your sleep patterns, daily habits, and overall health to identify disruptions in your internal body clock. At Valley Sleep and Wellness Center, we begin with a detailed consultation to understand your symptoms, such as difficulty falling asleep, waking up too early, or feeling tired at inappropriate times. A sleep diary or actigraphy (a wrist-worn device that tracks sleep-wake cycles) may be recommended to monitor your sleep schedule. In some cases, a polysomnography or blood tests to check for melatonin levels may be used to confirm the diagnosis and rule out other sleep disorders.
How is Circadian Rhythm Disorder Treated?
Treating circadian rhythm disorders focuses on realigning your internal clock with your desired sleep-wake schedule. At Valley Sleep and Wellness Center, we offer evidence-based treatments like light therapy, where exposure to bright light at specific times helps reset your circadian rhythm. Chronotherapy, which gradually shifts your sleep schedule, may also be employed. In some cases, melatonin supplements are used to promote sleep onset. Lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a consistent sleep schedule, reducing exposure to blue light before bedtime, and optimizing your sleep environment, are integral to successful treatment.
Why is Treating Circadian Rhythm Disorder Important?
A disrupted circadian rhythm can have far-reaching effects on your physical health, mental well-being, and daily productivity. Left untreated, these disorders may contribute to chronic fatigue, mood disorders, and an increased risk of health problems like heart disease and diabetes. Treating a circadian rhythm disorder restores balance to your sleep-wake cycle, improving your overall energy, focus, and quality of life. At Valley Sleep and Wellness Center, our specialists are dedicated to helping you achieve better sleep and regain harmony with your body’s natural rhythms. Don’t let a disrupted schedule affect your life—let us help you get back on track.
Ready to prioritize your sleep and take control of your health?
Schedule a consultation with our Sleep and Obesity Medicine team. We'll work closely with you to understand your unique needs and develop a customized treatment plan to help you achieve your goals.