Jet lag may result when interruptions to the circadian rhythm are present. Circadian rhythm refers to a 24-hour cycle of biochemical, physiological and behavioral patterns many people may experience. The condition may arise from travel across time zones.
An individual's internal clock may be out of sync with the time zone in which the person has traveled to. The body's normal routine of eating times, sleeping times and hormonal body temperature regulations may be out of sync. The body may take several days to readjust to the new time zone it is in, depending on how many time zones have been crossed. The time it takes to adjust to new time zones may also depend on the individual.Some individuals may adjust quickly, while others may take several days to adjust to their new environment. Crossing one or two time zones may not cause jet lag, as it may be more common when crossing 3 or more time zones.
The time spent on an airplane may not cause or influence jet lag. Rather, the distance traveled from east to west, or west to east on the plane may influence jet lag. In other words, crossing time zones may be what causes jet lag, not the time spent traveling between them.
Symptoms of jet lag may vary. Some symptoms may include a loss of appetite, headache or sinus irritation, fatigue, insomnia, confused sleeping patterns, disorientation, irritability and mild depression. The symptoms experienced and severity of symptoms may depend on the individual and the number of time zones crossed.
Adjusting to the new environment gradually, and still getting the regular 7-8 hours of sleep may help to reduce fatigue and may help to avoid depression. Also, eating an early dinner rich in carbohydrates and avoiding naps during the day when trying to catch up to a certain time zone may also help to adjust to the new, local environment.
By www.healthnews.org
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