Jet Lag

Overview

Jet lag is the term used for symptoms caused by disruption of the body's internal clock and the circadian rhythms it controls. It occurs when crossing multiple time zones, for example flying from east to west or vice versa. During the first few days after a fight to a new time zone, a person's circadian rhythm is anchored to time of day at home. Rhythm then adjusted gradually to the new time zone. Many people travelling more than 3 time zones away for a vacation accept the risk of jet lag as a transient and mild inconvenience, while other people who are travelling on business or to compete in athletic events desires clear advice on prophylactic measures and treatment.

Signs and Symptoms

Poor sleep, Poor performance in physical and mental tasks, Inability to concentrate, Fatigue, Headache, Gastrointestinal disturbances, Loss in appetite

Common Causes

Disruption in circadian rhythm due to changes in time zone e.g. during flying from one zone to another

Treatment and Prevention

Get a good rest before departure and also during medium to long flights, Eat light meals and limit consumption of alcohol before travelling, At destination, prepare the right condition for sleep and get as much sleep within the 24 hours of arrival, The cycle of light and dark is one of the important factors, Short acting sleeping pills might be helpful, Caffeine and physical activities may be used strategically at the destination to ameriolate daytime sleepiness, Melatonin receptor agonist, ramelteon, can be taken before sleep to cope up with jet lag in different time zone