
Jet lag normally lasts for a few days but can persist for up to a few weeks until a person’s circadian rhythm becomes synchronized with local time. Other symptoms include impaired physical or mental performance, daytime sleepiness, gastrointestinal problems, and overall malaise. Upon arrival, a person’s circadian rhythm is still anchored in their home time zone, creating a misalignment with the local time at their destination.ĭifficulty sleeping is a leading symptom of jet lag. Jet lag is a short-term sleep disorder that can occur after long-distance flights that cross three or more time zones. Travel fatigue can occur during travel of almost any type and length, and it may exacerbate underlying health conditions.
Extended periods in a seated position, which can cause leg swelling, stiffness, and reduced physical activity. Altered food and drink consumption while in transit, including increased intake of alcohol and caffeine. Pressurized airplane cabins that can contribute to dehydration, bloating, constipation, and respiratory tract infections. Inability to sleep while traveling, such as while sitting upright in a plane, train, or car. Delays or interruptions to the itinerary. Stress associated with packing, arriving on time, and other logistics. Anxiety about problems arising during a trip. Fear of flying or other types of travel. Numerous aspects of a trip can contribute to travel fatigue: Symptoms of travel fatigue include exhaustion, headaches, sleep loss, and other types of discomfort. Travel can bring both physical and mental stress, which may lead to travel fatigue. Many people find that they can’t sleep when traveling, making it harder to fully enjoy their trip. While travel can lead to new and exciting experiences, it also brings potential downsides. Poor sleep on a trip can have many causes, but concrete steps can improve sleep both in transit and during the rest of your trip. Regardless of why you travel, good sleep promotes wellness that lets you get the most out of any trip.ĭespite the importance of quality rest, it’s common to struggle with sleep when traveling. For others, it’s a core part of their work.
For many people, travel is one of the joys of life.