If you work night or early morning shifts, your chances of developing a sleep disorder called shift syndrome are greater than those who work day shifts. SWSD can cause major health problems if left untreated.
People who have SWSD often feel tired and unable to concentrate on work. They also may experience mood problems and gastrointestinal issues.
1. Tiredness
If you work a shift schedule that conflicts with your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, you may be at risk for developing shift syndrome. It’s estimated that up to one-third of shift workers suffer from this disorder. A prescription smart pill called Modalert 200, branded as modafinil or as it is frequently marketed, is used to treat sleep disorders such as shift work sleep disorder.
Shift syndrome symptoms vary by individual, but they usually come on gradually and can last as long as you continue to work shifts. If you experience recurring fatigue, headaches, or mood changes despite getting enough sleep, talk to your doctor about possible shift syndrome.
Your doctor will ask you about your current sleep patterns and may request a sleep diary or actigraphy to see how irregular your sleep pattern is. They will also ask about your medical history and medications. They will likely do a physical exam and a blood test to rule out other conditions.
2. Headaches
Headaches are the most common symptom of shift syndrome and are a major reason people miss work, school, or appointments. They can also affect your quality of life and lead to depression.
If you suffer from headaches, talk to your doctor about a treatment plan that may include medication, supplements, or diet changes. The most effective treatments can help reduce the pain and frequency of your headaches.
Headaches can be triggered by many things, including stress, medication, food, certain types of exercise, and jaw problems. They can also be caused by illness, such as a head injury or a tumor. Your doctor will use a variety of tests and exams to diagnose your headaches and develop a treatment plan that works for you.
3. Fatigue
Fatigue can make people feel tired, exhausted, or listless. This can have a big impact on how they do their jobs, and it can put a strain on their relationships.
If your fatigue is due to a medical condition, treatment is usually effective. You may need to change your diet, medications, or exercise habits.
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and lifestyle. They will also conduct a physical examination.
In some cases, your doctor will order blood tests and other lab work to find out what’s causing the fatigue. They may also want to carry out a sleep test, which you can wear for two weeks to track your sleeping patterns and sleep quality.
4. Nausea
Nausea is a common symptom of shift syndrome and occurs when the body’s neuroendocrine system is altered. This can result in nausea that lasts throughout the day and worsens with food and drinks.
It also leads to emesis or vomiting. This can be a dangerous problem, as it can lead to peptic ulcers or gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD).
Shift workers who are experiencing severe nausea may want to seek medical attention to determine the cause and prevent future episodes. There are several anti-nausea medications available that can help.
People who work night shifts or who often rotate between day and night shifts are at a greater risk for developing this disorder. Other factors that can increase the likelihood of a shift work sleep disorder include being older or having stress-related sleep problems. A smart pill Waklert 150 Australia is also used for sleep during work hours.
5. Depression
Depression is a serious medical condition that negatively impacts your mood and your ability to function. It is often associated with shift work, but it can be treated effectively.
The symptoms of depression are a depressed mood (feeling sad or irritable), a lack of pleasure in activities, and a change in appetite or weight. They usually last for at least two weeks and may be accompanied by changes in sleep or energy.
People with depression who work shifts may also experience poor concentration and memory problems. This can lead to impaired performance at work and add to the costs of an employer.
People who work irregular hours, such as split shifts, graveyard shifts, early morning shifts, or rotating shifts, are more likely to develop shift work sleep disorder (SWSD). Drowsiness, lack of restorative sleep, and extreme sleepiness are its hallmarks. Work and leisure time might both be impacted by these symptoms.
The circadian rhythm, or “biological clock,” of a person might be thrown off by the unconventional work schedule. Throughout the 24-hour day, it controls alertness and sleepiness at largely predictable intervals. When the circadian rhythm is disrupted, it can cause annoying symptoms because it influences:
