You may have heard the phrase “circadian rhythm,” but you might not fully understand what it is. Our circadian rhythm is simply described as a natural process that controls our sleep-wake routine and numerous other physical activities. By gaining knowledge of circadian rhythms, we can enhance our health, efficiency, and overall wellness. At The Sleep Center of Northwest Georgia in Dalton, Georgia, Dr. Naseer A. Humayun and his team can help in simplifying the understanding of what circadian rhythms are and their significance in the quality of our lives and everyday activities. Let’s take a closer look at what all of this entails and how it matters to each individual.
What are circadian rhythms?
A circadian rhythm is an internal 24-hour clock influencing a range of biological processes in all living beings, including sleep cycles, hormone secretion, feeding routines, and body temperature regulation. Originating from the Latin words “circa” and “diem”, which mean “around” and “day,” the term “circadian” essentially refers to processes revolving around a day’s cycle.
Circadian rhythms are found not only in humans but also present in animals, plants, and even microbes. These rhythms allow organisms to adjust naturally to the alternating patterns of light and darkness in their surroundings.
Circadian rhythm disorders include shift work disorder, delayed sleep phase syndrome, advanced sleep phase syndrome, irregular sleep-wake rhythm disorder, and jet lag.
Shift work disorder is particularly common in the Northwest Georgia area because of our industrial base where people frequently work night shift in factory jobs. You may be affected if you work night, early morning, and rotating shift jobs.
Treatment options for shift work disorder include changes to your work schedule (if possible), maintaining a steady sleep routine, light therapy and medications. Dr Naseer A. Humayun and our team at The Sleep Center of Northwest Georgia can help you to understand and manage your shift work sleep disorder.
How do circadian rhythms work?
The suprachiasmatic nucleus (SCN), a part of our brain in the hypothalamus, plays a central role in controlling our circadian rhythms. It takes cues from the light our eyes perceive to adjust our biological clock to align with the world around us.
During daylight hours, our eyes relay the message to the SCN that it’s time to wake up. This instigates a variety of physical reactions, such as enhanced alertness and the release of hormones like cortisol that encourage wakefulness. However, as darkness shrouds the night, the SCN kickstarts the production of melatonin—a hormone that induces sleepiness.
Why are circadian rhythms important?
Circadian rhythms are vital for many reasons. It:
- Affects the quality of our sleep. Properly regulated circadian rhythm allows individuals to get restorative rest with little disruptions, ensuring a quality night’s sleep and the chance to awaken fresh and energized.
- Affects mental health. Patients who have irregular sleep patterns that counteract their circadian rhythm may be at a higher risk of developing depression, anxiety, and other mood instabilities that can impact mental health.
- Affects physical health. When you do not have an aligned circadian rhythm and experience disruptions in your metabolic processes, including weight management and digestion, you may be putting yourself at a higher risk of developing diabetes, obesity, and even cardiovascular disease.
- Affects daily performance. If your schedule at work or school goes against your body’s natural circadian rhythm, you might find that you are not reaching your peak productivity and performance.
Tips for maintaining circadian rhythms
- Get plenty of natural light during the day
- Limit screen time before bed
- Establish a consistent and regular sleep schedule
- Create a relaxing bedtime routine
Learn more about the importance of your circadian rhythm and how it impacts your health and wellness!
Our team at The Sleep Center of Northwest Georgia assists individuals in learning more about how their circadian rhythm may be working for or against their daily lifestyle. Call (706) 226-2330 or complete this form to request an upcoming visit with Dr. Naseer A. Humayun at 1420 Mineral Springs Road.