MedlinePlus Medical Encyclopedia: Irregular sleep-wake syndrome

Skip navigation


Medical Encyclopedia
Other encyclopedia topics:	A-Ag Ah-Ap Aq-Az B-Bk Bl-Bz C-Cg Ch-Co Cp-Cz D-Di Dj-Dz E-Ep Eq-Ez F G H-Hf Hg-Hz I-In Io-Iz J K L-Ln Lo-Lz M-Mf Mg-Mz N O P-Pl Pm-Pz Q R S-Sh Si-Sp Sq-Sz T-Tn To-Tz U V W X Y Z 0-9

Irregular sleep-wake syndrome

Contents of this page:
Illustrations Alternative names	Definition Signs and tests

Illustrations

Irregular sleep

Alternative names Return to top

Sleep-wake syndrome - irregular

Definition Return to top

Irregular sleep-wake syndrome involves variable and disorganized periods of sleeping and wakeful behavior. In some individuals (such as shift workers and travelers who change time zones frequently), this syndrome is caused by extrinsic factors.

However, some individuals may have an irregular sleep-wake pattern due to abnormal circadian pacemaker (internal clock), abnormal brain function, or for other reasons. These cases are considered to be intrinsic.

Signs and tests Return to top

Individuals with irregular sleep-wake syndrome may complain of either insomnia or excessive sleepiness. Usually an irregular pattern of at least three sleep episodes during a 24-hour period is reported.

Total sleep time is normal for age. No underlying medical or mental disorder accounts for these symptoms, and no other sleep disorder is generally present.

Most people may occassionally experience disturbances in their sleep. However, if this type of irregular sleep-wake pattern occurs regularly and spontaneously, you may consider consulting a physician.

Update Date: 5/6/2004

Updated by: Allen J. Blaivas, D.O., Division of Pulmonary, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine, University Hospital, Newark, NJ. Review provided by VeriMed Healthcare Network.

The information provided herein should not be used during any medical emergency or for the diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. A licensed physician should be consulted for diagnosis and treatment of any and all medical conditions. Call 911 for all medical emergencies. Links to other sites are provided for information only -- they do not constitute endorsements of those other sites. Copyright 2002 A.D.A.M., Inc. Any duplication or distribution of the information contained herein is strictly prohibited.