Does time change affect health? A Georgia doctor weighs in
SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - As we get ready to change our clocks for daylight savings on Sunday, it’s also important to think about how this will impact your sleep schedule.
“We know that when we spring forward, our circadian rhythms are not just going to adapt in one day,” Dr. Carlton Kemp said.
Dr. Kemp is the director of the Sleep Disorders Center at Memorial Health. He’s urging you to start preparing for daylight savings now.
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Since 2015, several states have introduced legislation calling for the end of twice-yearly time changes, with many pushing for a permanent change to daylight saving time. Currently, federal lawmakers have stalled decision-making around the issue.
“Let’s go to bed a little earlier, in preparation that we’re going to lose that hour of sleep Sunday morning,” Dr. Kemp said.
He said even if you’re making sure to take the proper steps, it can still take about 1-2 weeks to get your circadian rhythm back on track.
Dr. Kemp also said it’s especially important to be cautious on the roads. One University of Colorado study says traffic accidents will be up 6 percent next week.
“Accidents with animals, deer running out and people not being as vigilant because the deer don’t know that the time changed,” Dr. Kemp said.
He also said sleep deprivation can lead to a greater chance of health risks.
“There’s actually a stress to our body and an increased risk in this coming week of heart attack and stroke,” Dr. Kemp said.
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While Kemp said the extra sunlight later in the day can help with seasonal affective disorder, in some cases, it can be worse for your mental health.
“If you feel that, hey, now I have more time at night, so I need to work a little bit longer at night or I need to take work home,” Dr. Kemp said.
He recommends that instead, you use that time to do things like exercise or relax.
If you notice your sleep continuing to get worse in the coming weeks, Dr. Kemp said it’s a good idea to check in with your health care provider.
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