Circadian Rhythm Disorders

Circadian rhythm disorders (circadian rhythm sleep disorders or circadian sleep disorders) are abnormalities in the regular day-night/sleep-wake cycle.

Sleep disorders are generally common in children of all ages. Circadian sleep disorders tend to be more common in teenagers. These include disruptions to the regular 24-hour rhythm to bodily changes (hormonal, temperature, alertness), sometimes referred to as the body clock.

If there is regular disruption to this internal cycle due to physical environment or social or professional schedule, excessive sleepiness or insomnia may result.

This may become clinically significant when it causes impaired function in social, work or other areas of life.