How are circadian rhythm disorders treated?
Circadian rhythm disorders are treated based on the kind of disorder that is present. The goal of treatment is to fit a persons sleep pattern into a schedule that can allow the person to meet the demands of a desired lifestyle. Therapy usually combines proper sleep hygiene techniques and external stimulus therapy such as bright light therapy or chronotherapy. Chronotherapy is a behavioral technique in which the bedtime is systematically adjusted. Bright-light therapy is designed to reset a persons circadian rhythm to a desired pattern. When combined, these therapies may produce significant results in people with circadian rhythm disorders. Reviewed by The Sleep Medicine Center at The Cleveland Clinic.
