Irregular Sleep-Wake Syndrome

When the body's internal clock loses a stable sleep pattern, it helps to know whom to consult. Irregular sleep-wake syndrome is a circadian rhythm disorder in which periods of sleeping and staying awake are spread out in a fragmented way throughout the day and night, without a defined nighttime schedule.

Common symptoms: scattered episodes of sleep, difficulty staying awake during the day and sleeping continuously at night.

Associated factors: it is seen more frequently in older adults and in those who have certain neurological conditions.

Which specialist treats it? the neurologist, the psychiatrist, and the family physician can evaluate these patterns; in children, the pediatrician and the pediatric neurologist take part. Reviewing your sleep habits with a professional is a good starting point.