Shift work sleep disorder (SWSD) is a sleep disorder that commonly affects those who work non-traditional hours, outside the typical 9 am to 5 pm work day. This type of schedule can go against most peoples’ internal body clocks or circadian rhythms. Not every shift worker suffers from shift work sleep disorder. It is estimated that 10% to 40% of shift workers have SWSD.
Individuals who work non-traditional hours commonly experience difficulties with both sleep and alertness at various times. Difficulties include falling asleep, fragmented sleep, poor sleep quality, and reduced sleep duration. During waking hours, shift workers are prone to excessive sleepiness, decreased cognitive and psychomotor function, and difficulty regulating emotions.
Shift work is a risk factor for a variety of adverse health outcomes. These can include: cancer, weight gain/obesity, cardiovascular disease, and pregnancy complications. Additionally, there is an increased likelihood of accidents and work-related errors, irritability/mood problems, poor coping skills and impaired social functioning, and drug and alcohol dependency.
How can one deal with SWSD? Your onsite provider or PCP can gather a history, do a physical exam, and make the diagnosis and discuss treatment options and strategies to deal with SWSD.
