Unhappy Pictures of Shift Drivers and Proposed Model of Chronoclinic
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Unhappy Pictures of Shift Drivers and Proposed Model of Chronoclinic
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
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Kavita Mudagalla
PG Scholar, Department of Samhita Siddhant, SVM AMC, Bagalakot, Karnataka, India.
M.R.Sajjanshetty
HOD & Professor, Department of Samhita Siddhant, SVM AMC, Bagalakot, Karnataka, India.
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: Unhappy Pictures of Shift Drivers and Proposed Model of Chronoclinic
Year: 2024 | Doi: 10.47070/ayushdhara.v11i3.1602
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Shift work, particularly among drivers, has become increasingly common, leading to various health challenges stemming from circadian misalignment and inadequate sleep. This article explores the adverse effects of such work schedules on drivers' health through an Ayurvedic lens, emphasizing the concept of "Nidra vega dharana," or suppression of sleep urges, which can lead to significant physical and psychological disorders. The consequences of shift work are multifaceted, impacting not only sleep but also metabolic, cardiovascular, reproductive, and psychological health. Therefore, there is a pressing need for effective strategies to mitigate these negative health impacts.
Consequences of Shift Work on Health
One notable consequence of shift work is its detrimental effect on sleep quality. Shift workers frequently experience sleep-related issues, including insomnia and excessive daytime drowsiness, which can lead to grave health problems like cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and mental health disorders such as depression. The disruption of circadian rhythms, alongside the psychological stress associated with an irregular lifestyle, intensifies these risks, indicating that the biological clock's misalignment substantially compromises the drivers' overall health. Sleep deprivation not only diminishes cognitive function and alertness but also influences factors like energy expenditure and glycemic control, thus fostering a host of metabolic disorders.
Shift Plan Recommendations
To combat the health issues associated with shift work, the article proposes a "Shift Plan" to optimize health and well-being among workers. This plan encompasses various elements such as effective shift scheduling, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, the use of illumination therapy, intermittent fasting, and nutritional supplements. Specific strategies include rotating shifts in a clockwise direction, scheduling longer rest periods between shifts, and allowing time for short naps during work hours to enhance alertness and performance. Additionally, the importance of adhering to Ayurvedic practices, such as maintaining a proper diet and lifestyle to balance body doshas, is highlighted as an essential component of promoting health among shift workers.
Conclusion
Given the complex interplay between shift work and health, a multifaceted approach is required to safeguard drivers' well-being. Establishing 'Chronoclinics' that provide chronotherapy can facilitate a better understanding and management of circadian rhythm disruptions. By tailoring shift schedules and implementing health-promoting practices, we can enhance productivity at work while also reducing the risk of chronic diseases linked to shift work. It is crucial to adopt a comprehensive strategy that invokes cooperation among healthcare professionals and management, focusing on education, psychological support, and ergonomic considerations to foster a healthier working environment for shift drivers.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What are the health consequences of shift work for drivers?
Shift work disrupts biological rhythms, leading to sleep disorders, cardiac issues, metabolic problems, and psychological disturbances. Common consequences include insomnia, obesity, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, and increased risk of accidents due to fatigue.
What recommendations exist for improving health in shift workers?
Shift workers should follow a well-structured shift schedule, practice healthy lifestyle choices, engage in illumination therapy, utilize intermittent fasting, and consider nutritional supplements. These measures aim to enhance sleep quality and overall health.
How does Ayurveda relate to sleep and shift work?
In Ayurveda, 'Nidra' is essential for health. Suppressing natural sleep urges can lead to imbalances, causing various diseases. Recommendations include 'Ratri Jagarana' avoidance and practices promoting balanced 'Doshas' to enhance overall wellbeing of shift workers.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Unhappy Pictures of Shift Drivers and Proposed Model of Chronoclinic�. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Nidra:
Nidra, or sleep, is one of the body's natural urges according to Ayurveda. It plays a crucial role in maintaining physical and mental health. Adequate Nidra is indispensable for rejuvenating the mind and nourishing the body, thus supporting overall vitality.
2) Vega:
Vega refers to the natural urges of the body, such as sleep, hunger, and thirst. In Ayurveda, suppressing Vega, such as Nidra Vega (urge to sleep), can lead to imbalances in the body's Dosha, Dhatu, and Mala, manifesting various diseases.
3) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine from India. It emphasizes the balance of physical, mental, and spiritual health and classifies health issues in terms of Dosha, Dhatu, and Mala. Ayurveda offers treatments including herbal medicine, dietary guidelines, and lifestyle recommendations.
4) Disease:
Disease in the context of shift workers can be exacerbated by the suppression of Nidra Vega, resulting in various health issues such as cardiovascular diseases, metabolic disorders, and psychological problems. The imbalanced bodily systems, or Dosha vaishamya, lead to these disease conditions.
5) Dharana:
Dharana means suppression or holding back. In Ayurveda, Nidra Vega Dharana refers to the suppression of the urge to sleep, which can lead to Vataprakopa (aggravation of Vata Dosha) and Rookshata (dryness), ultimately causing an array of health problems.
6) Food:
Food intake plays a significant role in the health of shift workers. High-calorie and carbohydrate-rich foods can exacerbate issues like obesity, hypertension, and metabolic disorders. Ayurveda advocates eating small, high-protein meals and Bhramana nasya (nutritional therapy) to maintain health.
7) Jagarana:
Jagarana, or wakefulness, specifically Ratri Jagarana (night wakefulness), is considered Vataprakopaka in Ayurveda. This aggravation leads to increased Vata Dosha, resulting in dryness, anxiety, and other conditions detrimental to the health of shift workers.
8) Dosha (Dosa):
Doshas are the fundamental bodily bio-elements in Ayurveda: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Imbalances in these doshas, often caused by factors like Nidra Vega Dharana, can lead to various health issues such as those experienced by shift workers.
9) Cancer:
Cancer risk increases among shift workers due to disruptions in circadian rhythms, melatonin production, and immune function. Exposure to light at night affects the body's natural cycles, potentially leading to hormonal disruptions and malignancies.
10) Vikara:
Vikara means disorder or disease. Nidra Vikara, or sleep disorders, can result from Nidra Vega Dharana. These disorders, such as insomnia, adversely impact both the physical and mental health of shift workers.
11) Dhatu:
[see source text or glossary: Dhaatu]
12) Vata:
Vata is one of the three Doshas in Ayurveda. Nidra Vega Dharana leads to Vataprakopa, which causes Rookshata and subsequently various health issues. Vata imbalance manifests in conditions like insomnia, anxiety, and physical dryness.
13) Mud:
Mood disturbances are common among shift workers due to sleep deprivation and circadian disruption. These disturbances can lead to psychological issues such as depression, irritability, and decreased concentration.
14) Adharaniyavega (Adharaniya-vega):
Adharaniya-vega refers to unsuppressable urges, according to Ayurveda, like sleep (Nidra Vega). Suppressing these urges can lead to health problems including Dosha vaishamya and Dhatu Vaishamya, further leading to diseases.
15) Inflammation:
Inflammation in shift workers often results from disruptions in sleep and circadian rhythms. Chronic inflammation can lead to metabolic and cardiovascular diseases, aggravated by poor lifestyle choices such as eating high-calorie foods.
16) Sutrasthana (Sutra-sthana):
Sutrasthana is a section within Ayurvedic texts where fundamental principles are described. Acharya Charaka discusses Nidra within this context, emphasizing its importance for maintaining health and the consequences of its suppression.
17) Drowsiness:
Drowsiness is a common issue among shift workers due to sleep deprivation and circadian misalignment. This leads to impaired job performance, increased accident risk, and overall reduced quality of life.
18) Hygiene (Hygienic):
Sleep hygiene is crucial for shift workers to mitigate the detrimental effects of irregular sleep patterns. Strategies include creating a quiet sleep environment, avoiding stimulants before bed, and following consistent sleep schedules.
19) Family:
Family and social life are significantly affected by shift work. Workers often struggle to socialize, leading to stress, loneliness, and dissatisfaction with both work and personal life.
20) India:
India is the country where the study primarily focuses on shift drivers, emphasizing the need for creating databases for different types of shift workers to better address their health concerns through Ayurvedic and modern interventions.
21) Ulcer:
Ulcers are common among shift workers due to irregular eating patterns, stress, and sleep deprivation. These gastrointestinal issues are exacerbated by the disruption caused by shift work schedules.
22) Mala:
Mala refers to waste products in Ayurveda. Proper elimination of Malas is crucial for maintaining health. Disruptions in sleep and circadian rhythms can lead to constipation and other digestive issues, impacting Mala balance.
23) Diet:
Diet plays a vital role in managing the health of shift workers. A balanced diet rich in proteins and low in carbohydrates, along with Ayurvedic recommendations like Sneha (ghee) intake, is advised to mitigate the adverse effects of shift work.
24) Pain:
Pain, including headaches and gastrointestinal discomfort, is common among shift workers due to sleep deprivation, stress, and metabolic imbalances. Ayurveda recommends treatments like Abhyanga and Shirodhara for alleviation.
25) Mental health:
Mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, and mood swings are prevalent among shift workers. Proper sleep, a balanced diet, and Ayurvedic therapies like Nasya can help manage these psychological disturbances.
26) Pharmacological:
[see source text or glossary: Pharmacological]
27) Sharirasthana (Sarirasthana, Sharira-sthana):
Sharira-sthana is the section in Ayurvedic texts dealing with bodily structures and functions. Acharya Sushruta explains the role of Nidra in nourishment and development in this section, emphasizing its health benefits.
28) Ashvagandha (Asvagandha, Ashwagandha, Ashvagamdha, Ashva-gandha):
Ashwagandha is an Ayurvedic herb recommended for managing the effects of shift work. It helps alleviate stress, improve sleep quality, and boost overall vitality, counteracting some of the negative impacts of irregular schedules.
29) Shirodhara (Sirodhara, Shiras-dhara):
Shirodhara is an Ayurvedic therapy involving a steady stream of warm oil poured on the forehead. It is effective in reducing stress, anxiety, and insomnia, offering relief to shift workers who suffer from sleep deprivation.
30) Discussion:
Discussion in this article revolves around the impact of shift work on health, emphasizing Ayurvedic concepts and modern strategies to mitigate these effects. It highlights the need for further research and practical interventions.
31) Depression:
Depression is a significant risk among shift workers due to disrupted sleep patterns and social isolation. Effective management includes psychological counseling, lifestyle changes, and Ayurvedic treatments like Ashwagandha supplementation.
32) Vyakarana:
Vyakarana refers to the Ayurvedic explanation of bodily functions and diseases. Acharya Sushruta's discussion in Garbha Vyakarana Shariram highlights the importance of Nidra in overall nourishment and health.
33) Karnataka:
Karnataka is the Indian state where the authors are based, specifically at SVM AMC in Ilkal, Bagalakot. The regional context is important for understanding the specific challenges faced by shift workers in this area.
34) Atinidra:
Ati-nidra, or excessive sleep, can also be harmful, leading to health issues such as lethargy and metabolic imbalances. Ayurveda emphasizes the need for balanced Nidra to maintain optimal health.
35) Vatadosha (Vatadosa, Vata-dosha):
Vatadosha is the 'wind' component among the three Doshas in Ayurveda. Imbalances in Vata due to Nidra Vega Dharana can cause insomnia, anxiety, and physiological dryness, impacting overall health.
36) Education:
Education of shift workers on sleep hygiene, healthy lifestyle practices, and Ayurvedic treatments is crucial for mitigating the adverse effects of irregular work schedules and maintaining health.
37) Abhyanga (Abhyamga):
Abhyanga is a traditional Ayurvedic oil massage beneficial for reducing Vata imbalances like dryness and stress. It is recommended for shift workers to alleviate symptoms related to sleep deprivation.
38) Krishata (Krsata):
Krishata refers to leanness of the body, which can result from chronic sleep deprivation as Vata and Kapha imbalances occur. Ayurveda proposes treatments to restore bodily nourishment and balance.
39) Medicine:
[see source text or glossary: Medicine]
40) Samgraha (Sangraha):
[see source text or glossary: Sangraha]
41) Samhita:
[see source text or glossary: Samhita]
42) Purusha (Purusa):
[see source text or glossary: Purusha]
43) Tarpana:
Netra Tarpana is an Ayurvedic eye treatment using herbal oils or ghee to rejuvenate the eyes. It's particularly useful for shift workers experiencing eye strain due to irregular sleep and work conditions.
44) Prakopa:
Prakopa refers to the aggravation of Doshas. Shift work often leads to Vataprakopa, which exacerbates Vata-related disorders like insomnia, dryness, and stress, affecting overall health.
45) Lakshana (Laksana):
Laksana refers to symptoms or signs of disease. Nidra Vegaavarodha janya laksana includes headaches, gastrointestinal issues, mood swings, and fatigue, all of which are common among shift workers.
46) Sharira (Sarira):
Sharira refers to the physical body in Ayurveda. Proper Nidra is essential for the nourishment and development of Sharira, helping to maintain balance in the Doshas and overall health.
47) Garbha:
Garbha Vyakarana Shariram, part of Ayurvedic literature, focuses on the development of the fetus and the role of Nidra in bodily nourishment and health, as explained by Acharya Sushruta.
48) Pushti (Pusti):
Pushti means physical nourishment and well-being. In Ayurveda, Nidra is crucial for Pushti, as it helps rejuvenate the body and maintain the balance of Doshas, enhancing overall health.
49) Sthana:
[see source text or glossary: Sthana]
50) Marana:
Marana refers to death. In Ayurveda, improper Nidra (like Nidra Vega Dharana or Ati-nidra) can lead to severe health issues that can be fatal, thus emphasizing its crucial role in health and longevity.
51) Anidra:
Anidra is the Ayurvedic term for insomnia. It is often caused by the suppression of Nidra Vega and can lead to various health issues, including impaired physical and mental well-being for shift workers.
52) Animal:
Animals, including humans, exhibit circadian rhythms that are essential for health. Shift work disrupts these rhythms, leading to external desynchronization and subsequent health problems.
53) Desire:
[see source text or glossary: Desire]
54) Kapha:
Kapha is one of the three Doshas in Ayurveda. Imbalance in Kapha, often due to improper sleep, can lead to weight gain, lethargy, and metabolic disorders. Ayurveda emphasizes maintaining Dosha balance for health.
55) Nasya (Nashya):
Nasya is an Ayurvedic treatment involving nasal administration of oils, useful for Vata imbalance like dryness and stress. It's recommended for shift workers to alleviate symptoms caused by disrupted sleep patterns.
56) Taila (Thaila):
Taila, or oil, is used in various Ayurvedic treatments like Abhyanga and Shirodhara to alleviate Vata-related issues such as dryness and stress, common among shift workers facing sleep deprivation.
57) Netra:
Netra Tarpana involves applying medicated oils or ghee to the eyes. This Ayurvedic treatment helps rejuvenate tired eyes, a common issue among shift workers subjected to irregular sleep and screen time.
58) Sukha:
Sukha means happiness or well-being. Adequate and proper Nidra (sleep) is necessary for achieving Sukha, as it balances the Doshas and nourishes the body, improving overall health and quality of life.
59) Ayus (Ayush):
[see source text or glossary: Ayush]
60) Fever:
[see source text or glossary: Fever]
61) Death:
Marana, or death, can result from severe health issues linked to inadequate Nidra. Chronic sleep deprivation leads to lifestyle diseases such as cardiovascular disorders, which may culminate in death.
62) Blood:
[see source text or glossary: Blood]
63) Maran:
[see source text or glossary: Maran]
64) Diva:
Diva Swapna, or daytime sleep, is advised in Ayurveda under specific conditions. However, inappropriate times for sleep, like during Ritujagarana, can result in health issues such as Vata imbalance.
65) Yoga:
[see source text or glossary: Yoga]
66) Ghi (Ghee):
Ghee is recommended in Ayurveda for various treatments, including Snehapaana. Consuming 1-2 tablespoons of ghee before night shifts can help counteract Vata prakopa and nourish the body.
Other Science Concepts:
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