Jet lag

Jet lag is a temporary circadian rhythm sleep disorder in which the body clock stays set to the old time zone after rapid travel across time zones. It can affect anyone, though older adults tend to suffer more, and pilots, flight attendants and business travellers are most often affected. Severity grows with the number of zones crossed and is greater after eastward flights; sleep loss, stress, caffeine and alcohol can worsen it. Typical complaints are poor sleep at night, trouble waking, daytime tiredness, weak concentration and memory, and stomach upsets such as indigestion or nausea. It is recognised from recent travel and symptoms; specialist sleep assessment is reserved for frequent travellers still struggling. Management relies on shifting sleep times before travel, daylight or bright light therapy and less caffeine and alcohol; medicines are rarely needed, though a brief hypnotic course or melatonin, whose evidence is limited, may be used.

Seek emergency care for a first seizure, a seizure lasting more than five minutes, a sudden severe headache, new weakness or confusion, or thoughts of harming yourself. See a doctor for headaches that are more frequent or changing, memory problems that affect daily life, or low mood lasting more than two weeks. Call the local emergency number for any symptom that is sudden and severe. This page is a reference for healthcare professionals and does not replace an assessment.