HomeAnswersSleep MedicineinsomniaMy circadian cycle has shifted. What can I do?

I have difficulty sleeping and my cicadian cycle has shifted. Please help me.

Share

The following is an actual conversation between an iCliniq user and a doctor that has been reviewed and published as a Premium Q&A.

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Meera Premanand

Published At February 4, 2022
Reviewed AtOctober 6, 2022

Patient's Query

Hello doctor,

My circadian cycle is shifted for a very long time. I never sleep before 2 or 3 AM, and I have difficulty waking up before 10 or 11 AM. Right now, it is so bad that I sleep at 4 or 5 AM and wake up at 1 or 2 PM.

Please advise.

Thank you.

Hello,

Welcome to icliniq.com.

This is known as delayed sleep phase syndrome. It can be treated by realigning your body clock with daytime.

I suggest the following:

1) Sit in the sunlight whenever you wake up for 45 minutes.

2) No screen-time use (phone, computer, laptop, and tablet) after sunset.

3) Avoid stimulants like tea, coffee, or cola after 4.00 PM.

4) No daytime naps.

5) Maintain perfect darkness in your bedroom at night.

These measures will help you get your circadian rhythm back in tune with the daytime. Remember that light (sunlight and blue light from electronic devices) tunes your body clock. Stay away from light in the evening and take adequate sunlight in the morning.

I hope this helps.

Thank you.

Same symptoms don't mean you have the same problem. Consult a doctor now!

Dr. Saraswat Kumarshri Shriniwas
Dr. Saraswat Kumarshri Shriniwas

Psychiatry

Community Banner Mobile
By subscribing, I agree to iCliniq's Terms & Privacy Policy.

Read answers about:

insomniainability to sleep

Ask your health query to a doctor online

Sleep Medicine

*guaranteed answer within 4 hours

Disclaimer: No content published on this website is intended to be a substitute for professional medical diagnosis, advice or treatment by a trained physician. Seek advice from your physician or other qualified healthcare providers with questions you may have regarding your symptoms and medical condition for a complete medical diagnosis. Do not delay or disregard seeking professional medical advice because of something you have read on this website. Read our Editorial Process to know how we create content for health articles and queries.

This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. iCliniq privacy policy