Irregular Sleep-wake Rhythm Disorder is a type of circadian rhythm sleep disorder that is uncommon. It is distinguished by multiple naps throughout the 24-hour period, no major overnight sleep episode, and day-to-day unpredictability.
Irregular Sleep-wake Rhythm Disorder (ISWRD) is also known as Irregular Sleep Wake Pattern, irregular sleep wake syndrome, Irregular Sleep Wake Cycle or Irregular Sleep Wake Schedule, and Irregular Sleep Wake Disorder (ISWD).
Affected people have no pattern of when they are awake or asleep, may have poor quality sleep, and are frequently sleepy while awake. The overall amount of time spent sleeping per 24 hours is normal for the person’s age.
The condition is serious, and serious and an invisible disability. It can cause social, familial, and job problems, making it difficult to maintain relationships and duties, and it can render a person homebound and isolated.
Treatment for irregular sleep-wake rhythm seeks to activate the biological clock in the brain so that a normal long night’s sleep can be accomplished. Sleep hygiene education is essential, and counselling can be beneficial.
Melatonin, vitamin B12, sleep and wake aids, and other drugs may be used as well. Exposure to light during the day and activities that occur at regular times each day may aid in the restoration of a normal rhythm.
ISWRD can result from a variety of conditions, including neurological disorders like dementia (especially Alzheimer’s disease), brain damage, or intellectual disabilities. The disorder’s risk increases with age, but solely because of the increased prevalence of co-morbid medical diseases.
References:
- Oyegbile T, Videnovic A (August 2019). Irregular Sleep-Wake Rhythm Disorder. Neurol Clin. 37 (3): 553–561. doi: 10.1016/j.ncl.2019.04.002
- Sack RL, Auckley D, Auger RR, Carskadon MA, Wright KP, Vitiello MV, Zhdanova IV (November 2007). Circadian rhythm sleep disorders: part II, advanced sleep phase disorder, delayed sleep phase disorder, free-running disorder, and irregular sleep-wake rhythm. An American Academy of Sleep Medicine review. Sleep. 30 (11): 1484–501. doi: 10.1093/sleep/30.11.1484
- Zee PC, Vitiello MV (June 2009). Circadian Rhythm Sleep Disorder: Irregular Sleep Wake Rhythm Type. Sleep Medicine Clinics. NIH Public Access. 4 (2): 213–218. doi: 10.1016/j.jsmc.2009.01.009