sleep-schedule disorder

A sleep-schedule disorder, also known as a circadian rhythm disorder, is a medical problem that disrupts a person's normal sleep patterns. These disorders affect the body's internal 24-hour timing system, which influences sleep, alertness, and hormone release.123

Two main types exist:
* Phase-advanced sleep: Sleep onset and waking occur earlier than socially typical.1
* Phase-delayed sleep: Sleep onset is delayed, leading to later waking. This is common in adolescents and can also affect shift workers or those who travel across time zones.1

Factors like blue light from electronic devices before bed can also disrupt sleep by affecting melatonin levels. Treatments often involve gradually readjusting sleep timing with light exposure or medication like melatonin.1