Up, Up And Away: How To Avoid Jetlag

What Is Jetlag?

If you have ever traveled by plane over a decent distance, you are likely to have suffered from jetlag. Largely this is due to the crossing of timelines, or simply the disorientation of boarding at one time of the day, say in the morning, then arriving hours later still in the morning because of international time zones and travel time.

Symptoms Of Jetlag

There are several symptoms that can be experienced with jetlag. You may only suffer one, or for some unfortunate people, they may suffer from them all! Knowing how to recognize the common symptoms of jetlag can help you identify the best way for you to counteract it before you start your journey.

Sleep Disruption

This is the most common side effect of travelling by plane, especially if you are unable to sleep while aboard an aircraft.  A lot of people have difficulty sleeping due to the environment on board, the number of people and the noises they make, or simply because they can’t get comfortable. The crossing of the time zones can result in you waking during the night or cause you to have difficulty getting off to sleep in the first place. 

Fatigue

Sleeping difficulties can lead to fatigue, which in turn can lead to disorientation. This can last for quite a few days after you reach your destination.

Fuzzy Brain And Confusion

Difficulty with memory and regular confusion are often reported after long flights. This is bad enough if you are travelling for leisure, but if you are on your way to a business meeting this could be quite disastrous!

READ Chronic Fatigue Syndrome: Real Illness, Misleading Name

Mood Disturbance

A common symptom of jetlag is frustration and irritability. This can be put down to a myriad of causes such as long, boring flights, being stuck in a small space for a long period, the inability of being able to move around too much. Then the stress of getting through customs and to your hotel can aggravate jetlag even more.

Dehydration

Dehydration happens largely due to the air conditioning on the plane, which is very dry. Headaches, nasal irritation and dry skin are common.

Feet

Swelling of the feet and legs can occur due to sitting for long periods of time. Physical symptoms can also cause jetlag, or at least aggravate it. It is important to get up and move as often as you can whilst you are in the air, and you need to keep comfortable shoes on your feet. Otherwise the swelling may be so severe that you can’t wear any shoes at all.