Non-24-hour sleep-wake syndrome (Non-24) is a circadian rhythm disorder that affects the timing of a person's sleep-wake cycle. People with Non-24 experience difficulty sleeping and staying awake at the same times each day, resulting in a cycle that is longer than 24 hours. This can lead to difficulty sleeping at night, excessive daytime sleepiness, and difficulty functioning during the day. Non-24 is most common in people who are totally blind, but it can also affect sighted individuals.

The primary symptom of Non-24-hour sleep-wake syndrome is a disruption in the body’s natural circadian rhythm, which is the body’s internal clock that regulates when we feel sleepy and when we feel awake. This disruption can cause a person to experience difficulty falling asleep and staying asleep, as well as excessive daytime sleepiness. Other symptoms may include difficulty concentrating, irritability, depression, and anxiety.

Non-24-hour sleep-wake syndrome is caused by a disruption in the body's circadian rhythm, which is the body's internal clock that regulates sleep and wake cycles. It is most commonly seen in people who are totally blind, as they are unable to detect light cues that help to regulate the circadian rhythm. Other causes of Non-24-hour sleep-wake syndrome include genetic factors, certain medications, and underlying medical conditions such as depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia.

1. Bright light therapy: This involves exposing the person to bright light at specific times of the day to help reset their circadian rhythm.

2. Melatonin supplementation: Melatonin is a hormone that helps regulate the body’s sleep-wake cycle. Taking melatonin supplements at specific times of the day can help reset the circadian rhythm.

3. Chronotherapy: This involves gradually shifting the person’s sleep-wake schedule by a few hours each day until it is in sync with the 24-hour day.

4. Cognitive behavioral therapy: This type of therapy can help the person identify and change any behaviors or thought patterns that may be contributing to the disorder.

5. Medication: Certain medications, such as stimulants, antidepressants, and anticonvulsants, may be prescribed to help regulate the person’

1. Blindness or severe vision impairment
2. Having a history of mental health issues, such as depression or bipolar disorder
3. Having a history of substance abuse
4. Having a history of sleep disorders, such as insomnia or sleep apnea
5. Having a family history of Non-24-hour sleep-wake syndrome
6. Being a young adult or adolescent
7. Having a history of jet lag or shift work
8. Having a history of neurological disorders, such as epilepsy or Parkinson’s disease
9. Having a history of head trauma or brain injury
10. Having a history of certain medications, such as antipsychotics or antidepressants

There is no cure for Non-24-hour sleep-wake syndrome, but medications can be used to help manage the symptoms. These medications include melatonin, stimulants, and antidepressants. Additionally, light therapy and lifestyle changes such as maintaining a regular sleep schedule and avoiding caffeine and alcohol can help improve sleep quality.