According to Right Diagnosis website, jet lag is a physiological condition that is caused by alterations to the normal circadian rhythm. Jet lag is classified or considered to be a type of circadian rhythm sleep disorder that is brought about rapid long distance travel across different time zones (transmeridian travel: East to West or West to East). There are people lucky enough that can easily adjust to the new time zone without experiencing or going through jet lag.
Symptoms of Jet Lag
As mentioned above, jet lag is caused by an alteration to the normal circadian rhythm that regulates the sleep and wake cycle. In connection with the circadian rhythm, many symptoms of jet lag are associated with the sleep and wake cycle. Symptoms of jet lag may include and not limited to:
- Insomnia
- Excessive Daytime Drowsiness
- Fatigue
- Sleeps too early and Wakes up too early in the morning
- Parasomnia
- Headache
- Difficulties concentrating
- Cognitive difficulties
- Nausea
- Loss of Appetite
- Digestive Problems – bowel movements do not match the new time zone.
- Constipation
- Changes in Appetite – just like bowel movements, appetite does not match with the new time zone.
- Mild Depression
- Sinus Irritation
- Disorientation
- Grogginess
- Irritability
Complications of Jet Lag
Jet lag usually last for no more than a week. However, there are some people who poorly adjust to the new time zone and can develop complications from it. The most common and usual complication of jet lag is sleep disorder.
Natural Remedies for Jet Lag
There are natural remedies that can be done to help in fighting off jet lag or it can help the circadian rhythm to adjust quickly to the new time zone. A type of natural remedy that can be effective in helping the body adjust to the new time zone easier are herbal remedies for jet lag. Here are some herbs that can be helpful in increasing stamina, regulating regular sleep and wake pattern, and help in fighting off stress:
- Siberian Ginseng
- Chamomile
- Oats
- Basil
- Valerian Root
Tips to Fight Jet Lag
Once you arrive to your point of destination during daytime, make sure that you will not sleep until it is already nighttime. Sleeping as close as your usual bedtime can help in regulating your sleep and wake pattern according to the new time zone, and when you wake up the next morning, expose yourself under bright light. Bright light can send signals to your brain and circadian rhythm that it is already daytime and it will keep your body awake.
