Jet lag

Jet lag is a physiological condition that results from disruptions to the body's circadian rhythm due to rapid long-distance trans-meridian travel. Managing jet lag primarily focuses on controlling light exposure, as light is the strongest stimulus for realigning a person's sleep-wake schedule. Adjusting to a new time zone is generally faster for east-west travel than for west-east travel.

Methods for managing jet lag

Various methods can be employed to manage jet lag, including:

1. Light exposure: Timed light exposure can help match circadian rhythms with the expected cycle at the destination. Light therapy, using special glasses that provide light to the eyes, can be used on the plane or before departure.
2. Melatonin administration: Timed melatonin use can reduce jet lag symptoms, although its effectiveness varies and may be limited or prohibited by anti-doping agencies for athletes.
3. Exercise and nutrition: Timing of exercise and food consumption has been suggested as remedies, though their applicability and practicality are uncertain.
4. Sleep medications: Short-acting sleep medications can improve sleep quality and timing, while stimulating substances like caffeine can promote wakefulness.
5. Rescheduling of sleep: Shifting sleep schedules before departure or maintaining a home-based sleep schedule upon arrival may reduce jet lag symptoms. This can be further enhanced by artificial light exposure and rescheduling.
6. Pharmacotherapy: Short hypnotic medications can help reduce insomnia related to jet lag, but potential adverse effects should be considered.

For short trips or time changes of fewer than three hours, jet lag is less likely to be a concern, and maintaining a home schedule may be better.

Caffeine

Caffeine can be used to temporarily counteract some of the symptoms of jet lag. In a study, administration of caffeine significantly improved alertness and performance in individuals with jet lag. However, caffeine should be used cautiously as it can also exacerbate sleep disturbances if taken too close to bedtime. It is recommended to avoid caffeine within 6 hours of intended sleep time.

Chronotherapy

Chronotherapy is the controlled adjustment of sleep-wake schedules to facilitate adaptation to new time zones. It involves gradually shifting the sleep-wake schedule before departure to match the destination time zone. This can be achieved by going to bed and waking up an hour or two earlier (for eastward travel) or later (for westward travel) each day for several days before departure. This strategy can help reduce the severity of jet lag symptoms and speed up the adaptation process. However, it might be difficult for some individuals to implement, particularly if they have tight schedules or commitments prior to their trip.

Environmental adaptation

Creating an environment that encourages sleep can be helpful in reducing the symptoms of jet lag. This may include making the sleeping space dark, quiet, and cool, using earplugs or a white noise machine, and ensuring a comfortable sleeping surface. Reducing exposure to screens before bedtime and engaging in relaxing activities such as reading or taking a warm bath can also help to signal the body that it is time for sleep.

See also

• Delayed sleep phase disorder
• Sleep deprivation
• Circadian rhythm sleep disorders
• Shift work sleep disorder

External links

National Sleep Foundation - Jet Lag CDC - Jet Lag Mayo Clinic - Jet Lag

Classification	ICD-10: G47.25 ICD-9-CM: 307.45 , 780.50 327.35 MeSH: D021081 DiseasesDB: 7045

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