MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Irregular sleep-wake syndrome

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Irregular sleep-wake syndrome

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Alternative Names Definition	Causes Exams and Tests When to Contact a Medical Professional

Illustrations

Irregular sleep

Alternative Names Return to top

Sleep-wake syndrome - irregular

Definition Return to top

Irregular sleep-wake syndrome involves different and disorganized periods of sleeping and wakeful behavior.

Causes Return to top

Some people have an irregular sleep-wake pattern because of a problem with brain function, the body's circadian pacemaker (internal clock), or other reasons.

In other people, such as shift workers and travelers who change time zones frequently, outside factors cause this syndrome.

Exams and Tests Return to top

Individuals with irregular sleep-wake syndrome may complain of either insomnia or excessive sleepiness. Patients usually have an irregular pattern of at least three sleep episodes during a 24-hour period.

The total amount of time a person with this condition sleeps is considered normal for their age. No medical or mental disorder causes the symptoms, and no other sleep disorder is generally present.

When to Contact a Medical Professional Return to top

Most people may occasionally have disturbances in their sleep. However, if this type of irregular sleep-wake pattern occurs regularly and without cause, you may consider consulting your health care provider.

Update Date: 5/19/2006

Updated by: Paul Ballas, D.O., Department of Psychiatry, Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

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