Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Jet lag is a sleep problem that happens when you fly across two or more time zones. Most people need to cross three time zones to notice it. The more time zones you cross, the worse it may be. It's usually worse when you fly east rather than west. You may have trouble sleeping. You may be sleepy during the day. Other symptoms include feeling weak, losing your appetite, or being constipated. Most people get better 3 to 4 days after their flight. Jet lag can happen to anyone. Your age, fitness, and health and how often you fly don't make a difference in whether you get it. You may be able to prevent or reduce the symptoms of jet lag. Here are some things you might try. Melatonin is a hormone that your body makes. It regulates the cycle of sleeping and waking. Taking a melatonin supplement may help "reset" your biological clock. Your doctor can recommend how much to take and when to take it. Your doctor may suggest that you: Take these steps. They have not been proved to reduce jet lag, but some people find them helpful. Take these steps. They have not been proved to reduce jet lag, but some people find them helpful. A medicine may help you sleep after you arrive at your destination. Current as of: July 10, 2023 Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff Current as of: July 10, 2023 Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff Clinical Review Board This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Ignite Healthwise, LLC disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use and Privacy Policy. Learn how we develop our content. To learn more about Ignite Healthwise, LLC, visit webmdignite.com. © 2024 Ignite Healthwise, LLC. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Ignite Healthwise, LLC.Sleep Problems: Dealing With Jet Lag
Overview
How can you deal with jet lag?
Credits
Clinical Review Board
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.
Our Health Library information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Please be advised that this information is made available to assist our patients to learn more about their health. Our providers may not see and/or treat all topics found herein. Current as of: July 10, 2023 Author: Ignite Healthwise, LLC Staff Clinical Review BoardSleep Problems: Dealing With Jet Lag
All Healthwise education is reviewed by a team that includes physicians, nurses, advanced practitioners, registered dieticians, and other healthcare professionals.