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The PHARMACIST talks about …

Jetlag

Jet lag is a common problem for transcontinental travelers.

It is an alteration of body rhythms caused by the body's inability to adapt to time zone shifts of 4 hours or more. Not all cases of Jet lag are the same.

It is an alteration of body rhythms caused by the body's inability to adapt to time zone shifts of 4 hours or more. Not all cases of Jet lag are the same.

Flying eastward often causes more severe symptoms of Jet lag than flying west. Most people adjust to a new pattern of sleeping and eating at the rate of about 1 hour per day. Thus, after 4 hour time zone change, the body will usually require about 4 days to fully adapt to a new circadian rhythm.

After long trips across multiple time zones, it is recommended that travelers plan on 24 to 48 hours of rest upon arrival. It is a good idea to avoid major commitments or making important decisions during this adjustment period as poor concentration and confusion are common symptoms of Jet lag.

If the traveling involves an important meeting or event at the destination, arriving 2 or 3 days in advance may allow the body to adjust and avoid the inconvenience of feeling Jet lag.

Prevention of Jetlag

• Getting adequate sleep before departure may help ease the symptoms of Jet lag.
• Try to organize a stop-over for at least one night to break-up journey.
• Another strategy is to begin resetting the body's clock several days in advance to departure by adopting a sleep-wake pattern similar to the day-night cycle at the destination.
• It is a good idea to have watches set to the time in the destination time zone half way through the trip. This may encourage the passenger to start thinking in terms of the new time.
• Counter dehydration by maintaining a good fluid intake and avoiding alcohol, tea, coffee and cola drinks.
• Have light meals of food that are easy to digest ( e.g. fruit and salads ).

Feel free to come in to Healthpoint Chemist and ask our friendly staff for advice.

Please Note: The advice on this website is to be used as an educational aid only. It is not intended to replace advice from your qualified GP or medical practitioner. Please ensure that you speak to them in relation to all of your health issues.