The Impact of Shiftwork

Shiftwork and Sleep Disturbance

Modern work practices such as night work, early morning shifts, rotating shifts, and long periods of regular travel can affect sleep patterns and lead to insomnia when one tries to sleep and sleepiness when one tries to work due to “sleep debt”. The changing pattern of sleep impacts the normal circadian rhythms of the body that regulates the sleep-wake cycle due to changes in the release of hormones such as cortisol and melatonin that usually stimulates alertness versus sleepiness. 

The risks involved damage to the worker and also to others around them. In a study of nurses, 600 of 895 reported having fallen asleep at the wheel at least once after a shift and a number having driven in a sleepy state after shift work. 

The health challenges from the disturbance of normal sleep patterns can include problems with mental health, poor work and home quality of life, harm to gastrointestinal, reproductive, and cardiovascular systems, and increased risk of substance abuse as people try and overcome the challenges of sleep or wakefulness. 

Approaches to deal with this are challenging as shift work is often enforced by the need for income from workplaces. Recommendations in an article from Japan included: “taking a short nap before or during night shifts, using bright light exposure and melatonin at appropriate times and using drugs such as Modafinil to stay awake as needed.” (1)

Employers need to be aware of the damaging consequences of sleep deprivation. Please speak to your doctor before taking any medication or if you have any concerns regarding sleep disturbance.

How are Dr. Heff's useful for shift workers? 

Dr Heffs Remarkables contain natural ingredients and are caffeine-free and sugar-free. One of the main ingredients is decaffeinated green tea extract which helps to protect the collagen that make up your teeth, as well as being antibacterial. 

They are ideal for people that suffer from dry mouth and poor sleep as they help to stimulate saliva, leave the mouth feeling fresh, and contain no sugar or caffeine. They are scientifically tested by international dental schools, recommended by dentists and endorsed by Toothfriendly International.

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All the best,

Dr. Mike Heffernan

Resources:

1. Komada, Y., Asaoka, S., Abe, T., Inoue, Y., 2013. Short sleep duration, sleep disorders, and

traffic accidents. IATSS Res.