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Jet lag

2009-02-26 14:12:07

Jet lag is a combination of fatigue and other symptoms caused by travelling

abruptly across different time zones. Another name for jet lag is 'time zone

change syndrome'. The body is synchronised to night and day by the action of

sunlight through brain chemicals or neurotransmitters, especially melatonin.

Many bodily processes are timed on this 24-hour physiological 'clock', such as

temperature, hormones, digestion, heart rate, blood pressure and brain states.

This changing rate of activity over each 24-hour period is called the circadian

rhythm ('circadian' means approximately one day). Travelling to a different

time zone disrupts the circadian rhythm. Other factors that contribute to jet

lag include lost sleep. There is no cure for jet lag, but its effects can be

reduced with careful planning.

Symptoms

The symptoms of jet lag include:

Fatigue
Sleepiness
Digestive upsets
Impaired judgement and decision making
Memory lapses
Irritability
Apathy.

Flying east or west makes a difference

Your circadian rhythm (body clock) is less confused if you travel westward.

This is because travelling west 'prolongs' the body clock's experience of its

normal day-night cycle (the normal tendency of the body clock in most of us is

slightly longer than 24 hours). Travelling eastwards, however, runs in direct

opposition to the body clock. If you suffer badly from jet lag, it may be

worthwhile considering a westerly travel route if possible.

Strategies while travelling

There is no evidence that popular strategies, such as fasting or eating

complicated diets, have any effect. Suggestions to reduce the impact of jet lag

while travelling include:

Make sure you have had enough sleep before you leave. Sleep deficit or 'debt'

will make jet lag worse.

Limit or avoid alcohol and caffeinated drinks.
Drink plenty of water.
Try to nap whenever you feel sleepy.
Eat small meals frequently, choosing lighter foods like fruit and vegetables.
Wear loose, comfortable clothing.
Whenever possible, walk around the cabin.

Sleeping on the plane

Suggestions include:

If you are flying westward, try to go to sleep as late as possible for two to

three days before you leave. This will make it easier to adapt to the new

location. For example, if you are flying from Melbourne to London, try to go to

sleep at 1-2am for the two to three days before flying out from Melbourne.

When you sleep on the plane, try to plan sleep as if the time is that of the

destination.

Wear earplugs.
Wear an eye mask.
Maximise comfort with a pillow supporting your neck and head.

Adjusting to the new time zone

The internal body clock of a jet-lagged traveller is out of synchronisation

with the new time zone, and is still operating on 'home time'. Different bodily

processes adjust to the new time zone at different speeds, which adds to the

confusion. Depending on the individual, the body needs anywhere from a few days

to a few weeks to acclimatise to the new time zone.

Sleep and your new time zone

Suggestions on adjusting to your new time zone include:

Expose your body to daylight to help 'reset' your body clock.
Drink caffeinated drinks in moderation during the day.
Avoid alcohol or caffeinated drinks for a few hours prior to sleep at night.
Try to mimic your usual bedtime routine.
Use relaxation techniques.

Alcohol and medications

Using medication is controversial and should be discussed with your doctor.

There have been reports of some benefits from either melatonin or very

short-acting sedatives. It is not recommended that you use sleeping tablets

during your flight in case of an emergency. Some travellers use alcohol to help

them get to sleep, but this actually disrupts the normal sleep cycles and can

prolong jet lag.

Where to get help

Your doctor.

Things to remember

Jet lag is a type of fatigue caused by travelling across different time

zones.

The body needs anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to acclimatise to the

new time zone - approximately one day for each hour of time zone changes.

Strategies include exposing yourself to daylight to 'reset' your body clock

and napping during the day when sleepy.