We live in a society that functions 24 hours a day-7 days a week. Some of you might be working in a profession that demands your presence round the clock; healthcare, aviation, IT, security, to name a few. It is imperative that you learn to cope with and get adapted to such work demands, limiting the adverse impacts of shift-work on your health.
Working in night and rotational shifts tends to upset the circadian rhythm causing serious health problems such as Shift Work Sleep Disorder (SWSD), some of its common symptoms are;
If untreated, SWSDs can lead to gastrointestinal disorders, obesity, cancer, heart diseases, hypertension, diabetes, impaired cognitive ability, cause accidents and errors at work. Effects of SWSD can linger even after you stop doing shifts.
Need a practical solution? Experts have listed some tips to help you manage SWSD effects at work.
The biggest challenge for shift workers is to get the ideal sleep environment at home, usually when they are ready to unwind the others at home are getting geared for the day. With the cooperation of family members, certain changes on the home-front can help you create an appropriate sleep environment. For example;
Lifestyle changes are the safest way to treat sleep disorders but at times it isn’t enough and that is when supplements like Melatonin comes in the picture. Though Melatonin is relatively safer than other sleeping aids it shouldn’t be taken without consulting a doctor. The best way to deal with SWSD is by talking to your Managers and peers while planning your monthly roster.
Sleep Term of the Week
