Circadian rhythm disorders disrupt the natural sleep-wake cycle, causing difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, or waking up at appropriate times. These disorders often result from misalignment between your internal biological clock and external factors like work schedules or time zone changes.

At The Restful Sleep Place, Dr. Funke Afolabi-Brown, a PENN-trained sleep medicine expert, specializes in diagnosing and managing circadian rhythm disorders. Her personalized, concierge approach helps patients restore balance and achieve healthy, restorative sleep.

Common Circadian Rhythm Disorders

We treat a variety of circadian rhythm disorders, including:

• Delayed Sleep Phase Disorder (DSPD): Difficulty falling asleep and waking up at socially acceptable times.

• Advanced Sleep Phase Disorder (ASPD): Early sleep and wake times that disrupt daily activities.

• Shift Work Sleep Disorder: Sleep issues caused by irregular work schedules, such as night shifts.

• Jet Lag Disorder: Temporary sleep disturbances after crossing multiple time zones.

• Non-24-Hour Sleep-Wake Disorder: Irregular sleep-wake patterns, often affecting individuals with vision impairment.

Signs and Symptoms of Circadian Rhythm Disorders

Symptoms vary but often include:

• Difficulty falling asleep or waking up at desired times

• Excessive daytime sleepiness

• Poor sleep quality or frequent awakenings

• Fatigue, irritability, or difficulty concentrating

Our Approach to Treating Circadian Rhythm Disorders

At The Restful Sleep Place, we focus on identifying the root cause of your circadian rhythm disorder and creating a tailored plan to restore your sleep-wake cycle.

Diagnosis

• Comprehensive evaluation of sleep patterns and history

• Sleep diaries or actigraphy to monitor sleep-wake cycles

• Polysomnography or other diagnostic tests if additional sleep disorders are suspected

Treatment Options

• Chronotherapy: Gradual adjustment of sleep-wake times to realign the circadian rhythm.

• Light Therapy: Exposure to bright light at specific times to regulate your internal clock.

• Medication Management: Melatonin or other treatments to support proper sleep timing.

• Lifestyle Counseling: Strategies for optimizing sleep hygiene and managing daily schedules.

Ongoing Support

• Regular follow-ups to track progress and fine-tune treatment plans

• Concierge benefits like direct communication with Dr. Brown for support between visits

Why Choose Dr. Funke Afolabi-Brown?

• World-Class Expertise: Dr. Brown’s training and experience provide advanced insights into complex sleep issues.

• Holistic Care: Treatments are personalized to fit your unique lifestyle and sleep needs.

• Convenience: Our concierge model ensures you receive priority care without long waits.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) | Circadian Rhythm Disorders

Can circadian rhythm disorders be permanent?

Most circadian rhythm disorders can be effectively managed with proper treatment, though some require ongoing adjustments.

How does light therapy work?

Light therapy uses bright light exposure at specific times to reset your internal clock and improve sleep patterns.

Are there medications for circadian rhythm disorders?

Yes, melatonin and other medications may be prescribed to support sleep-wake alignment.

Take the First Step Toward Restful Sleep

Circadian Rhythm Disorders can disrupt your daily life, leaving you feeling out of sync and fatigued. At The Restful Sleep Place, Dr. Funke Afolabi-Brown offers expert, personalized care to address sleep schedule challenges and guide you toward healthier, more restorative sleep. Whether you’re struggling with delayed sleep phase disorder, shift work sleep disorder, or jet lag, we’ll create a plan tailored to your unique needs.

Take the first step toward better sleep and balance. Contact The Restful Sleep Place today to schedule a consultation with Dr. Funke Afolabi-Brown and begin your journey to improved sleep health.