Many of us love to travel, but not every aspect of a travel adventure is fun and games. From lost luggage to a sunburn, there can be little annoyances along the way, but the enjoyment of seeing a new place usually outweighs the hassles. With summer coming to a close, there’s no better time to learn a little bit about one of the most pesky side effects of travel – jet lag!
Formally referred to as jet lag disorder, this temporary sleep issue can affect anyone who has traveled across multiple time zones. The human circadian rhythm is a 24-hour cycle that responds to light and darkness in the body’s environment and tells you when to stay awake and when to sleep. The more time zones you cross, the more confused your body gets and the more likely you are to experience jet lag.
For example, if you arrive in Barcelona, Spain at 7:00am, your internal clock will be telling you that it is 1:00am and past your bedtime in Miami. You will want to go to sleep instead of starting your first day in Spain.
What are the symptoms of jet lag?
Symptoms vary from person to person and depending on the number of time zones you have traveled through. Frequent flyers, elderly adults and those traveling east can be affected more severely. In general, you can expect the following while your body is adjusting to the new time zone:
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Abnormal sleep patterns: waking up early, inability to fall or stay asleep, daytime fatigue
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Difficulty functioning or concentrating as you normally would
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Gastrointestinal problems, constipation, diarrhea
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Muscle soreness
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A general feeling of illness and/or exhaustion
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Menstrual symptoms in women
Tips for preventing jet lag
According to the Mayo Clinic, the risk factors associated with jet lag are fairly low and the temporary unwell feeling will pass with time. It can still make for an uncomfortable trip, so precautionary measures may be smart.
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Get plenty of rest before your trip. This will allow your body more time to adjust to a new schedule without becoming completely exhausted.
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Begin to gradually adjust to the new schedule before you depart. Alter the time you wake up and go to sleep. Attempt to eat meals closer to the time you will eat them in your new time zone.
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Drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated before, during and after your trip will help to lessen jet lag symptoms.
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Arrive early. If you are traveling for an important meeting or event, allow time for your body to adjust before you have to be at peak performance.
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Stick to your new schedule. If it’s nighttime at your new destination while you are flying, try to sleep. Set your watch to the new time before you leave.
If you’re a frequent traveler…
According to Mayo Clinic, jet lag doesn’t typically require medical attention, but certain steps can be taken for frequent travelers who experience discomfort. Frequent flyers commonly use sunlight and caffeine to regulate the internal clock. Alternatively, certain prescription medications can be used to induce sleep and ease time zone transitions. Call [phone_main] for more information about these medications.
As you prepare for travel, be sure to stop by [company_short] for all of your travel necessities, as well as more tips and tricks on preventing and treating jet lag. Especially since your age and health history can play a role, it never hurts to speak with a professional.