Jet lag disorder

Jet Lag Disorder is a physiological condition that results from alterations to the body's circadian rhythms caused by rapid long-distance transmeridian (east-west or west-east) travel on high-speed aircraft. It is classified as a sleep disorder in the International Classification of Sleep Disorders and is a form of circadian rhythm sleep disorder. Jet lag was previously known as desynchronosis.

Symptoms

Jet lag symptoms tend to be more severe when traveling eastward compared to westward, as it is generally easier for the body to delay sleep than to advance it. Common symptoms include:

• Insomnia or excessive sleepiness
• Daytime fatigue
• Difficulty concentrating or functioning at your usual level
• Stomach problems, constipation, or diarrhea
• A general feeling of not being well
• Mood changes

Causes

The primary cause of jet lag is the body's circadian rhythms being out of sync with the time zone of the destination. The circadian rhythm is an internal clock that regulates the timing of sleepiness and wakefulness over a 24-hour period. Rapidly crossing multiple time zones can significantly disrupt this internal clock.

Prevention and Treatment

Preventative measures and treatments for jet lag vary and can include:

• Gradually adjusting your sleep schedule before your trip
• Exposure to sunlight to help reset your body's clock
• Staying hydrated
• Avoiding caffeine and alcohol close to bedtime
• Using sleep aids or melatonin supplements, under the guidance of a healthcare provider

Research

Research into jet lag continues to evolve, with studies focusing on the mechanisms of circadian rhythms, the effectiveness of various treatments, and the impact of jet lag on physical and mental performance.

See Also

• Circadian Rhythm Sleep Disorder
• Sleep Disorder
• Melatonin