Shift work sleep disorder, or SWSD, is caused when the subject works against the body’s natural body clock. Such disruptions to the body are similar to jet lag or seasonal affective disorder (SAD). When the problem becomes persistent, the sufferer may be developing shift work sleep disorder or SWSD. Symptoms may include:
- disturbed sleeping patterns
- sleep insomnia
- tiredness
- loss of appetite
- depression
- headaches
- inability to concentrate
Insomnia Due to Shift Work Schedule
SWSD is a widespread problem, as 15 million Americans work the graveyard shift in such jobs as factories and emergency services. Of these, 15% to 25% suffer from SWSD, chronic insomnia or a similar circadian rhythm disorder. (“Shift Work Sleep Disorder Fact Sheet” Cephalon, 2009) The likelihood of accidents is therefore increased due to loss of concentration.
Using the Light Box as a Natural Sleep Aid Treatment for SWSD
But According to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine “How Shift Workers can Improve Job Performance and Implement Realistic Sleep Schedule” (Dec 8 2008), a study into light therapy has shown to help shift workers improve performance, alertness and effective treatment for SWSD.
However, adjusting the work pattern to one that is more suitable will compliment the effectiveness of light therapy. Rotating work patterns require extra care.
Insomnia Treatment for Night Shift Working
Professor Alan Bird, an eye specialist of the Moorlands Eye Hospital discovered that light waves bias in the blue spectrum was more effective in treating circadian rhythm disorders than the traditional white light.
For this reason, many portable light boxes with bluewave technology are available for those who wish to use it for SWSD, to prevent winter depression and to ease jet lag.
SAD Lamps for the Night Shift
The Litebook Elite SAD lamp is portable, compact and emits light that peaks in the blue spectrum. Similarly, the SAD Litepod is the smallest light box using light bulbs that emit 10000lux full spectrum.
But the Apollo Golite series offers new innovations in portable light therapy, making their models ideal use for taking to work, but providing equal effectiveness as large conventional SAD light boxes.
Apollo Golite P1, Golite M2 and Golite Blu
Most of these models have the following features:
- fits easily in the handbag for its compactness, measuring around 15cm square and 2.5cm deep
- portable as it uses a rechargeable long lasting lithium ion battery, although mains can also be used
- uses LED rather than lightbulbs, meaning shorter treatment times required
- bluewave technology emits a specific part of the blue spectrum, proven to suppress the sleep hormone melatonin and stimulating the mood enhancer seratonin, helping to promote alertness
- shorter phototherapy times required than the conventional SAD light boxes emitting white light, requiring only 20 to 30 minutes per day as opposed to 1 to 2 hours per day
- the Golite Blu uses a diffuser system for more even blue lighting
- energy efficient
- adaptors available for international usage
- neoprene carrying case
- all models backed by medical research and safety standards
Cheap Light Boxes
Since SWSD is considered to be a medical condition, the sufferer may be exempt to paying VAT on the price of the SAD lamp. A VAT exemption self-declaration form may be required.
The Best Portable SAD Light Box for Night Shift Work
SWSD can be a debilitating condition, but light therapy has been shown to offer effective treatment for sleep disorders. Compact SAD lamps with bluewave technology provide convenience and shorter treatment times for those who work the night shift.
Note: Although light therapy is a safe treatment, consultation with a GP or eye specialist is recommended prior to embarking upon light therapy.
Reference:
American Academy of Sleep Medicine “How Shift Workers can Improve Job Performance and Implement Realistic Sleep Schedule” (Science Daily, Dec 8 2008)
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