What should you know about long term jet lag?

Crossing time zones can leave your internal sleep-wake rhythm out of step with local daylight, meals, work, and social routines. You may have difficulty sleeping at the intended bedtime, wake too early, feel sleepy during the day, or develop headache and reduced concentration. Symptoms that continue after the expected adjustment period may overlap with insomnia or another sleep, mood, medication, or medical problem. A travel history helps a clinician separate ongoing jet lag from a different cause.

Keep a consistent wake time in the new location and seek outdoor light at a time that supports the direction of your adjustment. Eat and exercise on the local schedule, keep naps brief and early, and make the bedroom dark, quiet, and cool. Avoid alcohol close to bedtime and be cautious with driving when sleepy. A clinician can tailor insomnia management or discuss medicines and light timing, particularly if you have other conditions or take regular medication.

Book an appointment if sleep problems continue, daytime sleepiness interferes with work or driving, or headaches are severe or recurrent. Seek urgent help for sudden severe headache, weakness, confusion, fainting, chest pain, or breathing difficulty. Persistent low mood, panic, or unsafe thoughts also require prompt support.

Could this still be jet lag, or does it resemble insomnia? How should I time light exposure, naps, or any medicine? Is it safe for me to drive and work while sleepy? Would a travel health consultation help before my next trip?