The jet lag syndrome is a type of ailments that appear during long journeys, when we change time zones several times. East-west travelers are most severely affected. How to avoid dizziness, insomnia and confusion after a long flight?
Causes of jet lag - sudden change of time zones syndrome
The symptoms of Sudden Time Shift Syndrome are caused by a disturbance in the biological clock. Changing the time zone causes disturbances in homeostasis, the body's ability to maintain constant internal parameters such as body temperature, blood pH, pressure and changes in the circadian rhythm. The proper functioning of the biological clock also depends on the production of such hormones as melatonin (responsible for sleep and wakefulness) and cortisol (responsible for metabolism).
After changing time zones, the organism cannot keep up with the adaptation to new conditions (times of the day, metabolism, bedtime) and reacts with disease symptoms. If you want to avoid dizziness, lack of appetite, sleep problems and confusion, follow some simple rules. Remember also that the body is much less comfortable with flights to the East, i.e. those in which the day is shortened. We experience minor ailments when flying west.
Jet lag symptoms
- sleep disorders;
- decreased concentration;
- disturbed appetite;
- confusion;
- headaches;
- sleepiness;
- gastrointestinal trouble;
- exhaustion.
Preventing the symptoms of changing time zones
To help your body endure jet lag problems, get plenty of rest before traveling and avoid heavy foods. Get on the plane after a good night's sleep. Relax and stretch before your flight. Try to sleep on the plane.
You should prepare yourself for a long journey by taking an appropriate pillow, earplugs, and an eye mask. If you know your body and you know you can't sleep on a plane or train, try to recover by taking short naps. Don't forget to keep your body hydrated.
Remember, however, that alcohol is not good for you while travelingrelieving the symptoms of a biological rhythm disturbance - on the contrary - it immobilizes, takes away energy, raises blood pressure.
Mitigating Sudden Time Zone Syndrome
After a few days in a new place, the body gets used to the changes and the biological clock adjusts to the current time. The way to quickly eliminate the differences between the local time and the body's needs is to adjust the daily rhythm to the local one immediately after arrival. In a situation where jet lag symptoms persist, be sure to see a specialist. After a medical consultation, you can take short-acting sleeping pills or a dose of melatonin.