Circadian Factors - Dr Yacoob Carrim

Enviromental zertgeber effects of:

• bright light 3000 Lux (suppresses melatonin)
• Bedroom light proofing
• Welders sunglasses on commute home from night work

Enhance circadian adjustment - Rx Melatonin

• ? effect on enhancing daytime sleep

Humans are diurnal - work in the day and sleep at night
Circadian alignment affects mood, well being and performance efficiency
Circadian reallignment leads to desynchronosis

• Malaise, gastrointestinal dysfunction, performance decrements

Sleep Factors

• Shift workers get 10 hours less sleep per week
• - less S2 and REM. SWS is consistant. reduced sleep latency
• Drive home from night shift - most dangerous activity
• Domestic and social factors
• - childcare
• - hosehold maintenance functions
• - risk of divorce 57%
• -- sexual partner, social companion, protector and caregiver roles are compromised
• Social isolation from daywork friends, religious and community organisations

Dr Yacoob Omar Carrim
zasleep@gmail.com