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Irregular sleep-wake syndrome

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Irregular sleep-wake syndrome

Definition:

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.

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Alternative Names:
Sleep-wake syndrome - irregular

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