Delayed sleep phase syndrome (DSPS) - Vejthani Hospital | JCI Accredited International Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand.

Delayed sleep phase syndrome (DSPS)

Diagnosis

The healthcare provider may conduct an interview to review the family history and medical history of the patient. Various tests might be recommended to accurately identify DSPS and any associated conditions, such as:

  • Actigraphy: Patients in this study wear a small device that records their sleepwake cycles while they are at home.
  • Sleep diary: The healthcare provider may ask the patient to keep a sleep diary as part of the evaluation. To gain insights into their sleep pattern, they must keep a daily sleep and wake time log
  • Polysomnogram: A polysomnogram may be requested by a healthcare provider if they have reason to believe that a patient has another type of sleep disorder. In this test, the subject spends the night in a sleep facility while their breathing, heart rate, oxygen levels, eye movements, and brain activity are monitored.

Treatment

Healthcare providers collaborate with patients to develop a personalized treatment strategy aimed at addressing the issue and restoring a consistent sleep pattern. This plan may encompass the following elements

  • Improve the sleep hygiene: This is to maintain a regular sleep schedule, abstaining from caffeine and stimulating activities right before bed, abstaining from smoke and alcohol, and using the bedroom only for sleeping and private activities are all examples of good sleep hygiene. Exercise in the morning can also be good, as can avoiding moderate to vigorous exercise right before night
  • Melatonin supplements: Melatonin supplements may be recommended by healthcare providers to be taken in the early evening to assist regulate the circadian rhythm.
  • Bright light therapy: The circadian rhythm may change if the person is exposed to light in the morning. Upon waking up, the patient is advised to sit near the light for around 30 minutes.
  • Chronotherapy: Healthcare professionals might recommend a sleep schedule that delays your bedtime 1 to 2.5 hours every six days until the desired bedtime is attained. It’s crucial to diligently adhere to this established schedule.