Shift work disorder is an issue that can affect people who do not work traditional 9 – 5 jobs. Having a sleep schedule that varies or involves sleeping during the day can make a person more likely to drive while drowsy, which increases their chance of car accident, and can make a person more likely to be in an accident in general. Keep reading to learn how to reduce the effects of this disorder.
Understanding the Circadian Rhythm
Most of the negative effects of shift word disorder are the result of disruptions to the body’s natural clock, otherwise known as the circadian rhythm. It controls a long list of functions in your body, including digestion, hormone release, and even your temperature. If the rhythm is affected, it may tell the body to feel alert when it is time to sleep and vice versa.
This affects shift workers because when they are working at night, their circadian rhythm is telling them to slow down and sleep. When they get home at the end of the shift and the sun is coming up, their circadian rhythm may tell them it is time to be alert and prevent them from sleeping. The results can be long-term fatigue and insomnia, amongst other effects.
Steps Shift Workers Can Take to Lower the Health Effects
Other than getting a job that does not require unusual hours, there is nothing a person can do to avoid the health effects of shift work completely. However, there are steps that can be taken to increase the chance of a full session of sleep.
First, be sure to create a place to sleep after your shift that is dark, quiet and cool. Avoid eating heavy foods, drinking caffeine, or drinking alcohol for several hours before you sleep. These can all affect your ability to sleep. Exercising and other methods of managing stress can also help improve sleep and improve a person’s overall health too. Finally, if possible, try to go to sleep at around the same time each day. Having a set pattern can help the body get used to the change.
Have You Suffered an Injury as a Result of Shift Work Disorder?
If you have suffered a serious injury as a result of shift work disorder, your employer could potentially be responsible. It may be that another party is responsible. The key is to talk to a personal injury attorney to find out who can be held accountable.
If another party acted negligently or recklessly and this resulted in your injury, then we may be able to sue them for damages. This could include your medical bills and much more. Contact The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000 now for a free legal consultation to learn more.
