Circadian Rhythm Disorders And Patient Assistance
May 26, 2022 —
Circadian Rhythm Disorders (CRD) are disruptions with your circadian rhythm, also known as your “internal body clock,” that keep your body’s biological sleep process in order. Your normal circadian rhythm is regulated by the cycle of light and dark during the day, which plays a crucial role when you sleep and are awake.
Causes and Symptoms
Oftentimes, individuals may not know they are experiencing any type of circadian rhythm disorder, so it’s important to consider the following factors when it comes to your daily routine. There are many internal and external causes of circadian rhythm disorders, some of which include:
- Light exposure
- Drinking caffeine later in the day
- Extensive travel across different time zones
- Non-traditional work hours
- Late-night activities
- Levels of physical activity
- Medications
- Medical conditions
- Mental health (i.e., anxiety or stress)
- Appropriate timing and release of melatonin
Just one, or many, of these factors could lead to a circadian rhythm disorder diagnosis.
People with CRD usually have problems falling asleep and staying asleep, waking up too early and not being able to fall back asleep, or getting plenty of sleep but not feeling refreshed by it. Other symptoms may include poor concentration, lower cognitive skills, poor coordination, headaches, or stomach problems.
CRD’s Impact
On average, about 70 million Americans suffer from circadian rhythm disorders. According to one study, the sleep aid market is expected to be worth about $114 billion by 2025 due to individuals’ battles with their sleep patterns.
The lingering stress and anxiety from the COVID-19 pandemic certainly did not help those struggling with sleep disorders. A recent research study has shown that individuals who tested positive for COVID-19 at any point were more likely to have heightened insomnia — where you have trouble falling and/or staying asleep — and lower sleep durations, which are both key indicators of CRD.
As the impact of the pandemic continues to sweep the nation, it’s essential to know if CRD is impacting you. Accessia Health provides eligible patients with access to available financial assistance for CRD and many other chronic illnesses and rare diseases.
Our Circadian Rhythm Disease Fund
Accessia Health has been assisting patients with CRD since 2015. Our established Circadian Rhythm Disorder Program provides financial assistance for copays, insurance premiums, medical-related travel, and more.
For more information, or to see if you qualify for assistance in any of our available programs, check out our prescreening tool and apply today. You can also call us at 1-800-366-7741.*
To support those seeking assistance with CRD, click here to donate. Make sure to designate your gift to the “Circadian Rhythm Disorder Fund.”
*Please consult with your healthcare provider or seek professional medical treatment if you have any medical concerns. Please do not disregard any professional medical advice or take any delay in seeking medical treatment based on anything you may have read in this blog, on this website or in any linked materials contained within. Thank You.