Jet Lag Symptoms

We can fly from one country to another within a few hours. We all have a natural body clock in our body which makes us feel sleepy during night and keeps us awake during day time. But when we fly from one country to another we may cross different time zones and our body clock which is also known as circadian rhythms, is left behind at the place from where we began our journey. When we reach our new destination our body clock takes some time to catch up with the new time zone. This can make you feel sleepy during the day and keep you awake at night. This problem is known as jet lag.

Jet lag, also known as time zone syndrome, is a sleep disorder and results as a side effect of long distance travel by air. Jet lag can affect anyone but people who exceed 50 years of age are its common victims whereas children and babies are rarely affected by it. It is usually found in people who travel across multiple time zones. Jet lag affects you more when you fly towards east direction.

The symptoms of jet lag may differ from persons to persons depending upon age, the number of time zones traveled and the overall health conditions of the person. The most common symptom of jet lag is insomnia or interrupted sleep. By crossing different time zones your built in circadian rhythms get disturbed and then you may find it difficult to sleep at night. Remaining disturbed and awake at night will ultimately make you sleepy the following day. This may continue until your body clock adjusts to the new time zone. All these may make you irritable and tired.

As a result of jet lag you may experience headaches and your emotional as well as mental stress may be triggered. You may find it difficult to relax and settle down in your new destination and may even suffer from depression. Your limbs may become swollen as a result of which you may not be able to wear your shoes for a day or two.

You may also experience a loss of appetite, upset stomach, dehydration, nausea and gastrointestinal problems. Other symptoms of jet lag include dry skin, increased susceptibility to infections, flu, coughs, colds, sore throats, confusion, clumsiness, moodiness, loss of concentration etc.