What Is the Circadian Rhythm?
5. Causes
While most of the circadian rhythm is synchronized with the 24-hour duration, in some individuals, this rhythm is out of phase and has been thought to be due to the following factors. For example, when the environment such as high levels of noise, light, and high temperature are not conducive to sleep. Altered or disrupted environmental cues are the commonest cause of circadian rhythm disorder.
It can also be due to travel where the severity of jet lag is correlated to the direction of travel. This is most severe in those traveling eastward and a higher number of time zones crossed. Jet lag is often experienced among those who cross three or more time zones. Other factors that play a role in the severity of jet lag include age, ability to sleep during travel, exposure to light, and time during arrival. Neurologic disease such as Alzheimer’s is also one of the more common conditions associated with disturbance of the circadian rhythm. Other causes include shift work and lifestyle.
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