Jet Lag Disorder

What is a Jet lag disorder?

Jet lag occurs when air travel allows a person to move time zones in a short amount of time, thus causing the intrinsic circadian rhythm to be in desynchrony with external light cues. It usually includes when the person is travelling through at least two time zones. Eastward travel is more difficult to adjust to than westward travel.

Currently, there are no studies to actually determine the gender preponderance to jet lag disorders. All age groups can be affected by it but individuals over the age of 50 years are more likely to develop the disorder.

Sign and symptoms

Symptoms are usually most prevalent on the day after arrival at the destination. The intrinsic circadian rhythm will adjust to destination cues at a rate of 1 to 1.5 time zones per day.

Most common symptoms include the inability to sleep when desired, daytime sleepiness, and decreased alertness and cognitive performance.

General management

Timed light exposure with pharmacological intervention is the choice of treatment.

Disclaimer: The information provided herein on request, is not to be taken as a replacement for medical advice or diagnosis or treatment of any medical condition. DO NOT SELF MEDICATE. PLEASE CONSULT YOUR PHYSICIAN FOR PROPER DIAGNOSIS AND PRESCRIPTION.