Anyone who jets from one side of the world to the other is familiar with the headachy, dull malady that accompanies a flight over dozens of countries and numerous time zones.
SYMPTOMS
- Disorientation.
- Fatigue.
- Insomnia.
- Inability to concentrate.
- Lack of energy.
- Headache.
- Nausea.
CAUSES
- Really only one cause - travelling non-stop across a number of time-zones, especially at great speed - as in a jet plane.
METHODS OF DIAGNOSIS
- Personal observation.
- Experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above after a long flight.
TREATMENT
- Adjust sleep time to the point of destination before you leave.
- Adjust to the destination time as quickly as you can.
- Some people believe that intervals of feasting/fasting the day before you leave prevents jet lag.
- Some people believe you should eat nothing during the flight.
- Bright light therapy sometimes helps.
- Get some exercise when you arrive - a brisk walk in the sunlight or swimming a few laps.
- Absorb water. Drink as much as you can swallow, soak in the tub.
- Don't worry about it. The mind could persuade you that you are far worse off than you really are.
- Ask your doctor about using a supplement - Melatonin, vitamins (B and C) or potassium.
For More on jet lag, check out my Jet Lag Articles and Links.
