What should you know about jet lag plane?

Crossing time zones quickly gives your internal clock a different signal from the clock at your destination. You may feel sleepy during the day, wake during the night, find it difficult to sleep, or develop a headache. Appetite and concentration can also feel unusual. Jet lag is different from an infection acquired during travel, although illness can occur at the same time.

Use the destination schedule soon after arrival: seek appropriately timed daylight, keep naps brief, drink water, eat regular light meals and move gently. Keep the bedroom dark, quiet and cool at night. Avoid driving or safety-sensitive work when very drowsy. A clinician or Travel Health Consultation can help tailor timing for long journeys. See Jet Lag and Insomnia Management for related guidance.

Arrange medical advice if sleep disruption or daytime sleepiness continues after you have had time to settle, repeatedly affects work or driving, or occurs with persistent headache, confusion, breathing pauses or severe mood change. Seek urgent help for sudden neurological symptoms, chest pain, fainting or severe breathing difficulty; these are not typical jet lag features.

Ask whether your symptoms fit jet lag, how to shift your sleep schedule for the direction of travel, and whether another condition such as Insomnia needs assessment. Mention medicines, pregnancy, sleep disorders and any planned driving.