Delayed sleep phase syndrome
Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome (DSPS) is a sleep disorder characterized by a delay in the timing of the major sleep period in relation to the desired sleep time and wake-up time. This results in symptoms of sleep onset insomnia or difficulty in awakening at the desired time.
Pronunciation
- Delayed: /dɪˈleɪd/
- Sleep: /sliːp/
- Phase: /feɪz/
- Syndrome: /ˈsɪndrəʊm/
Etymology
The term "Delayed Sleep Phase Syndrome" is derived from the following words:
- Delayed: From the Old French delaier, meaning to postpone or defer.
- Sleep: From the Old English slēpan, meaning to be in a state of rest.
- Phase: From the Greek phásis, meaning appearance or aspect.
- Syndrome: From the Greek syndromē, meaning concurrence of symptoms, from syn- (together) + drómos (a running).
Symptoms
The main symptom of DSPS is an inability to fall asleep until very late at night, with the resulting need to sleep late into the morning or even into the afternoon. Other symptoms may include:
- Difficulty waking up in the morning
- Daytime sleepiness
- Poor concentration and performance in the morning
- Depression or mood disorders
Causes
The exact cause of DSPS is unknown, but it is thought to be related to the body's internal circadian rhythm. Factors that may contribute to the development of DSPS include:
- Genetic predisposition
- Exposure to artificial light in the evening
- Lack of morning sunlight exposure
- Lifestyle factors, such as late-night work or social activities
Treatment
Treatment for DSPS typically involves changes to sleep habits and lifestyle, such as:
- Following a regular sleep schedule
- Avoiding exposure to light in the evening
- Increasing exposure to morning sunlight
- Use of melatonin supplements
- Chronotherapy, a behavioral technique that involves gradually shifting the sleep time
Related Terms
- Insomnia
- Circadian rhythm sleep disorder
- Non-24-hour sleep-wake disorder
- Advanced sleep phase syndrome
- Jet lag
External links
- Medical encyclopedia article on Delayed sleep phase syndrome
- Wikipedia's article - Delayed sleep phase syndrome
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