Jet lag, a sleep disorder resulting from traveling across different time zones, manifests with a range of symptoms, varying in severity depending on the number of time zones crossed and individual sensitivity to changes. The more time zones crossed, the more disrupted the body’s rhythm becomes, leading to various jet lag symptoms:
- Daytime sleepiness: Difficulty sleeping at night and tendency to sleep during the day.
- Reduced concentration: Difficulty comprehending tasks like reading or processing information.
- Headaches: Ranging from mild to severe, persisting until medication is taken.
- Insomnia: Difficulty falling asleep despite being in bed for hours.
- Fatigue and disorientation: Difficulty performing tasks requiring concentration or effort, such as driving or engaging in lengthy discussions.
- Restless sleep with frequent awakenings.
- Impaired judgment and reasoning.
- Diarrhea: Dry air in airplanes can cause headaches, dry skin, and dehydration.
- Upset stomach and mild abdominal pain.
- Mild nausea.
- Disrupted menstrual cycles in women who frequently fly.
- Approximately 50% of long-distance travelers may experience jet lag symptoms like diarrhea, according to a World Health Organization report.
While jet lag symptoms typically resolve within a few days without medical intervention, persistent symptoms lasting two weeks or more may require medical attention.