What should you know about getting over jet lag?

Jet lag is a temporary mismatch between your internal body clock and the time zone you have reached. It can cause difficulty sleeping at night, waking too early, daytime sleepiness, reduced concentration, headache and changes in appetite. The direction and number of time zones crossed can affect how the change feels. See [Jet Lag](/conditions/jet-lag/) and [Difficulty Sleeping](/symptoms/difficulty-sleeping/) for related information.

Use the destination’s clock for bedtime, waking, meals and activity as soon as practical. Seek natural light during the local day and keep lights lower near bedtime. Drink water, choose regular meals and keep exercise gentle if you feel tired. A short nap may be less disruptive than a long daytime sleep. Avoid driving or making safety-sensitive decisions if you are very sleepy. If sleep remains difficult, discuss [Insomnia Management](/treatments/lifestyle-and-wellness/insomnia-management/) or a [Travel Health Consultation](/treatments/occupational-and-travel-medicine/travel-health-consultation/) with a clinician.

Arrange medical advice if sleep disruption or daytime sleepiness continues after you have had time to adapt, repeatedly affects work or travel safety, or is accompanied by severe headache, confusion, fainting or breathing problems. A clinician can also assess another sleep condition, including [Insomnia](/conditions/insomnia/), when symptoms do not fit a short-lived travel adjustment.

Ask which light schedule suits your travel direction, whether a medicine or supplement is appropriate for you, and how to manage jet lag if you have a sleep disorder, take regular medicines or must drive soon after arrival.