Advanced sleep phase disorder

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Advanced Sleep Phase Disorder (ASPD) (pronunciation: ad-vanced sleep phase dis-order) is a sleep disorder in which a person's sleep-wake cycle is significantly earlier than the societal norm, causing them to fall asleep and wake up earlier than most people.

Etymology

The term "Advanced Sleep Phase Disorder" is derived from the English language. "Advanced" refers to something being ahead or further along in progress, complexity, or development. "Sleep Phase" refers to the stages of sleep that a person goes through during the night. "Disorder" refers to a disruption of normal physical or mental functions.

Symptoms

People with ASPD often experience excessive sleepiness in the early evening and wake up extremely early in the morning, unable to return to sleep. Other symptoms may include difficulty staying awake in the evening, waking up too early in the morning, and having a reduced total sleep time.

Causes

ASPD is often caused by a mutation in the PER2 or CK1δ genes, which are involved in the regulation of the body's internal clock, or circadian rhythm. Other factors that may contribute to the development of ASPD include age, lifestyle factors, and certain medical conditions.

Diagnosis

Diagnosis of ASPD is typically based on a person's sleep history, physical examination, and the results of sleep studies such as a polysomnography or actigraphy. A sleep diary or questionnaire may also be used to gather information about a person's sleep habits and patterns.

Treatment

Treatment for ASPD often involves chronotherapy, which is a behavioral technique that aims to gradually shift a person's sleep-wake cycle to a more socially acceptable time. Other treatment options may include light therapy, melatonin supplements, and lifestyle modifications.

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