Question

Travellers complain which of the following as result of disruption of circadian rhythms due to crossing time zones, i.e. jet lag?
A. sleepiness during the day
B. depression
C. sleepiness during night
D. impaired concentration
E. sleeplessness during day
Choose the correct answer from the options given below:

• A. A, B & amp; C Only
• B. C, D & amp; E Only
• C. B, C & amp; D Only
• D. A, B & amp; D Only

Hint:

Jet lag causes daytime sleepiness (insomnia at night) and cognitive deficits (impaired concentration). Mood changes like irritability or depression are also highly common due to melatonin and cortisol dysregulation.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Question:
The question asks us to identify the common symptoms and complaints associated with jet lag, which occurs when crossing multiple time zones disrupts our biological circadian rhythms.

Step 2: Detailed Explanation:

• Crossing multiple time zones disrupts the body's internal biological clock (circadian rhythm), which is regulated by the suprachiasmatic nucleus of the hypothalamus.

• A. Sleepiness during the day: Because the body's clock remains synchronized with the origin time zone, travelers experience extreme daytime fatigue and sleepiness in their new destination.

• B. Depression: Circadian rhythm disruption directly impacts neurotransmitter regulation, often leading to mild mood disturbances, irritability, and depressive symptoms.

• D. Impaired concentration: Sleep disruption and lack of synchrony between biological systems impair cognitive functioning, resulting in reduced focus, memory issues, and concentration deficits.

• C. Sleepiness during night is incorrect: Travelers experience *sleeplessness* (insomnia) at night because their body clock thinks it is still daytime.

• E. Sleeplessness during day is incorrect: Travelers feel excessively tired and sleepy during the day, not sleepless.

• Therefore, the primary symptoms of jet lag listed are A, B, and D.

Step 3: Final Answer:
The symptoms reported as a result of disrupted circadian rhythms from jet lag are A, B & amp; D Only.