How Daylight Saving Time May Actually Trigger Headaches
The effects of Daylight Saving Time on our bodies are often overlooked Discover the potential health implications as we prepare to turn back the clocks, explained by an expert
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When the clock is set back, does your world get turned a little upside down?
Dr. Rajkumar Dasgupta, associate professor of clinical medicine at the University of Southern California Keck School of Medicine in Los Angeles, provides valuable insights on how to prioritize our health during the time change and mitigate its impact.
The time change can have a big impact on the body, Dr. Rajkumar Dasgupta said.
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This conversation has been edited and condensed for clarity.
CNN: What potential health issues do you expect to arise from the time change when Daylight Saving Time ends?
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More symptoms than you think may be tied to your migraines
The end of Daylight Saving Time often serves as a catalyst for cluster headaches, as these debilitating attacks can occur daily over a period of six to eight weeks before subsiding in a cluster pattern. The theory is that changing the time during Daylight Saving Time can actually initiate this cycle.
The link between the time change and cluster headaches lies in the fact that the portion of the brain responsible for generating cluster headaches also governs our circadian rhythms. This region is located in the hypothalamus.
Additionally, many individuals who suffer from migraines often experience slight sleep deprivation or disturbances in their sleep patterns, leading to an elevated frequency of headaches during this time. CNN investigates why Daylight Saving Time has such a significant impact.
"Dasgupta emphasizes that Daylight Saving Time (DST) may appear to be a minor shift, but it can have a significant impact on our circadian rhythm, which is responsible for regulating our sleep-wake cycle.
Moreover, it is crucial to understand that the effects of changes in our circadian rhythm vary from person to person. Not everyone will be equally affected by these shifts. It is important to note that cluster headaches can be triggered not only by DST changes but also by changes in time zones."
CNN: Is there cause for concern as daylight diminishes?
Dasgupta: The conclusion of Daylight Saving Time signals a decrease in daylight and shorter days during the autumn and winter months. This transition has the potential to exacerbate Seasonal Affective Disorder, a form of depression that is influenced by seasonal changes and the diminishing daylight.
It is widely acknowledged that daylight saving time does not directly lead to mental health disorders, but it can significantly impact individuals with preexisting conditions. It is important to ensure that nobody feels compelled to endure or tolerate a decline in their mental well-being. If you observe any changes in your mental health, especially if it adversely affects your overall well-being, it is recommended to reach out to a medical professional.
Individuals with Alzheimer's and dementia are more susceptible to sleep disturbances, and daylight saving time (DST) can worsen their symptoms.
Alzheimers Disease Fast Facts
These individuals frequently undergo disrupted sleep-wake cycles as a result of cognitive impairments, resulting in irregular sleep patterns and drowsiness during the day. The association between Daylight Saving Time and sleep disruptions in individuals with Alzheimer's and dementia is especially alarming, given the crucial role that sleep plays in cognitive function and the consolidation of memory. Sleep disruptions can worsen the cognitive decline linked to Alzheimer's and dementia, making it even more challenging for individuals to carry out everyday tasks and retain their independence.
CNN: How can we better support individuals who are more vulnerable?
Dasgupta: Simply staying informed about these matters is essential. A lack of sufficient and restful sleep, in particular, can increase the likelihood of accidents such as falls, which we must strive to prevent at all costs.
Please be more mindful during that period. Whether you are a primary caregiver or a visitor of a loved one with Alzheimer's, please take note of these guidelines.
CNN: What measures can we take to safeguard ourselves from the effects of daylight saving time?
Dasgupta suggests several strategies to help with the transition during the fall and winter, such as gradually adjusting one's schedule, engaging in exercise, spending time outdoors in the morning, and considering light therapy. Additionally, he emphasizes the importance of being prepared for migraines by having medications ready twice a year.
If you experience a worsening headache that does not respond to usual medications, whether it's related to your mood or not, it is crucial to seek immediate medical attention.
