Shift work sleep disorder (SWSD) is a sleep disorder that primarily affects those who work outside of the traditional 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. workday. Shift work patterns mess with most people’s internal body clocks or circadian rhythms.
A shift worker may perform nighttime shifts, early morning shifts, or switch shifts. Shift workers are employed in a variety of industries, including hospitals, transportation, and healthcare. Any occupation that requires you to work outside of typical business hours, such as 9 a.m.-5 p.m., is considered shift employment. The sleep-wake cycle, also known as the circadian rhythm, can be disrupted by these disturbances, particularly late-night work.
The Effects of the Night Shift on the Human Body
The World Health Organization has even classified shift work as a potential carcinogen (WHO). Working irregular hours, according to recent research, may reduce your life. Nurses who worked rotating shifts for at least 5 years increased their chances of dying from any cause by 11%.
Shift workers are more likely than non-shift workers to have sleepiness and mental problems. Shift work can disrupt a person’s regular functioning as well as cause molecular or hormonal problems.
Another challenge is transitioning from a night to a daily schedule on days off or during shift changes at work. This transition has symptoms that are similar to jet lag. To acclimate to sleep disturbances, the body requires one hour each day. For night shift workers, this may be impossible.
Symptoms of Shift Work Sleep Disorder
Shift workers with sleep difficulties may find it difficult to fall asleep, leaving them drained and tired. Some people have a difficult time falling and staying asleep. Nightshift employees, according to the UCLA Sleep Disorders Center, get two to four hours less sleep each day than the general population.
Additional signs and symptoms might include:
- Fatigue or malaise.
- Difficulty paying attention or concentrating.
- Memory impairment.
- Mood disturbance or irritability.
- Excessive daytime sleepiness.
- Hyperactivity, impulsivity, aggression, and other behavioral problems.
- Reduced motivation, energy, or initiative.
- Higher risk of errors or accidents.
Treatment for Shift Work Sleep Disorder
Although drugs that promote wakefulness can help with insomnia or fatigue, they are not a substitute for sleep. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved two wakefulness-promoting medications, Buy Modafinil Australia / Modalert and Armodafinil, to treat shift work issues. If taken one hour before work, these drugs may help you stay alert during your shift. This medication is available in Generic Meds Australia, one can also buy Modalert Australia. It’s important to remember that waking-up medications may not restore awareness to the point where driving a car or performing dangerous tasks at work is safe. Modafinil and armodafinil have the potential to cause negative side effects and addiction.
Benzodiazepines and other sleep-promoting drugs can help shift workers sleep better. When taking sleep medications at the start of your shift, be cautious because they may raise the risk of accidents if the drowsiness does not wear off quickly. Existing sleep disorders, such as sleep apnea, may be aggravated by sleep medications, which can also be addictive11. It’s a good idea to talk to your doctor about the right dose and timing of sleep aids for your particular schedule.
While shift work medicine can help with insomnia and fatigue, it is not a replacement for sleep. Always with your doctor before starting a new medication or changing your dose.
Managing Sleep Deprivation and Night Shift
Positive lifestyle changes, as with any sleep disruption, can go a long way toward ensuring that you get the sleep you need when your schedule allows it. Give them a try if you’re not sure where to begin—you might be surprised at how well they work! Even when working the night shift, shift workers can undertake a variety of things to guarantee that they get enough good quality sleep:
- Even on days off, try to stick to a normal sleep schedule.
- After a series of shifts, if possible, take 48 hours off.
- When leaving work, wear sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun.
- When feasible, take a nap.
- Caffeine should be avoided four hours before bedtime.
During your shift, here are some tips for keeping awake and alert.
- Take a 30-minute nap before starting your shift and, if possible, a couple of 10-20 minute naps throughout the night.
- Throughout the shift, eat small quantities.
- Continue to move forward.
- Make small talk with your coworkers.
If the above methods don’t work, talk to your doctor about what you’re doing to get more restful sleep. If it’s possible for your health, consider going to a day shift instead of a night shift. Some people report fewer symptoms of the sickness after switching to a more normal work shift. If insomnia symptoms persist despite changing schedules, a diagnosis of chronic insomnia disorder may be necessary. Read more businessread.co
