Skiftarbetssömnstörningar

Skiftarbetssömnstörningar, also called shift work sleep disorders, are sleep disorders that arise when the work schedule is incompatible with a person's circadian rhythm. The condition is common among personnel who work non‑traditional hours such as night shifts, rotating shifts, or irregular schedules, and it is recognized by the International Classification of Sleep Disorders (ICSD-3) as a distinct circadian rhythm disorder.

The primary cause is a mismatch between the external light–dark cycle and the internal biological clock. During night work the body is stimulated to remain awake while the melatonin secretion that normally promotes sleep is suppressed by artificial light and activity. When workers return to sleep during daylight hours, they often experience a mismatch between their circadian drive to rest and the social clock, leading to fragmented or insufficient sleep.

Symptoms of skiftarbetssömnstörningar include excessive daytime sleepiness, difficulty initiating or maintaining sleep at night, irregular sleep patterns, impaired concentration, and mood disturbances. Long‑term exposure may increase the risk of metabolic disorders, cardiovascular disease and impaired occupational performance.

Diagnosis is normally based on clinical history, sleep diaries, and validated questionnaires such as the Shift Work Sleep Questionnaire. In complex cases, polysomnography or actigraphy can be used to quantify sleep architecture and circadian phase shifts.

Treatment focuses on both behavioral and pharmacologic approaches. Chronotherapy and controlled light exposure are used to reposition the circadian phase. Structured napping, sleep hygiene education and scheduled melatonin or caffeine use can improve sleep quality. Employers may reduce rotating shift cycles, provide rest breaks, and control ambient lighting to mitigate the disorder. Early recognition and intervention can decrease health risks and improve safety and productivity for shift workers.