Jet lag and shift work sleep disorders: How to help reset the internal clock

Abstract

Jet lag sleep disorder and shift work sleep disorder are the result of dyssynchrony between the internal clock and the external light-dark cycle, brought on by rapid travel across time zones or by working a nonstandard schedule. Symptoms can be minimized by optimizing the sleep environment, by strategic avoidance of and exposure to light, and also with drug and behavioral therapies.