Emma Hamberg: The Woman Who Lives Before Lights

For many, "night owl" is just a fun phrase that describes someone who stays up late. But for Emma Hamberg, it's a medical condition that makes it extremely difficult for her to wake up in the morning.

Circadian Rhythm Sleep-Wake Disorder, or CRDWD, is a neurological condition that affects the brain's natural sleep-wake cycle, the 24-hour rhythm that regulates our sleep and wakefulness. Symptoms of CRDWD can include insomnia, excessive daytime sleepiness, and difficulty waking up in the morning.

Hamberg was diagnosed with CRDWD in her early 20s. Prior to that, she had always struggled with fatigue and difficulty waking up in the morning. But after experiencing a particularly bad episode of insomnia, she decided to see a doctor.

"I was so exhausted, I could barely function," Hamberg recalls. "I was falling asleep at work, and I was even having trouble staying awake while driving."

After undergoing a sleep study, Hamberg was diagnosed with CRDWD. The doctor explained that her body's natural sleep-wake cycle was delayed by several hours, which is why she found it so difficult to wake up in the morning.

Armed with a diagnosis and a treatment plan, Hamberg began to make changes to her lifestyle. She started going to bed and waking up at the same time each day, even on weekends. She also began to avoid caffeine and alcohol before bedtime.

While there is no cure for CRDWD, it can be managed with medication and lifestyle changes. Hamberg now takes a medication that helps to regulate her sleep-wake cycle. She also follows a strict sleep schedule and avoids caffeine and alcohol before bedtime.

Thanks to her treatment, Hamberg is now able to live a full and productive life. She is able to work full-time, she has an active social life, and she enjoys spending time with her family and friends.

"CRDWD is not a death sentence," Emma says. "With the right treatment, it is possible to live a full and happy life."