Health A to Z

A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Jet lag

Jet lag happens when you go through an abnormal sleeping pattern due to a long flight. It improves within a few days when your body adjusts to the new time zone.  

Jet lag symptoms

The primary symptoms of jet lag are:

  • Changes in regular sleeping pattern
  • Exhaustion and tiredness
  • Hard to stay awake during day time
  • Poor sleep quality
  • Memory and concentration problems
  • Dizziness or nausea
  • Indigestion or constipation
  • Mild anxiety

Changes in appetite

  • How to reduce jet lag?

    Prevention is not applicable for jet lag, but you can do certain things to reduce its impact. They are:

    Before and during flight

    • Get a lot of rest before you travel
    • During the flight, drink plenty of water
    • Keep yourself active in flight by stretching and walking around the cabin
    • Try sleeping if it’s nighttime at your destination
    • Use an eye mask or ear plugs for better sleep
    • Don’t drink too much alcohol or caffeine; it might worsen the jet lag

     After your arrival

    • Change your sleep schedule as soon as possible to fit the new time zone
    • Set the alarm to avoid oversleeping in the mornings
    • Step outside during the day to get more natural light (helps to adjust the body clock)
    • Don’t sleep during day time
How to reduce jet lag?

Jet lag treatments

There are no particular treatments or medicines for jet lag. It often improves within a few days when your body starts adjusting to the new time zone.

Reviewed by – Dr. Priyanka, MBBS MD Microbiology
Page last reviewed: 16 JULY 2022