According to a 2004 Bureau of Labor Statistics research study, about 15 million Americans work an evening or night shift, a rotating shift or some other varied schedule. Most people with hectic, varied work schedules will agree that this can take a toll on personal and family life. Such a work schedule can also have negative effects on your health, often referred to as Shift Work Disorder.
Sleep Deprivation
The Canadian Center for Occupational Health and Safety reports that sleep deprivation and changes in sleep patterns are one of the more significant health effects of a varied work schedule. The quality and quantity of normal sleep is disrupted with in shiftwork, particularly where night work is involved, the website reports. It attributes this to the decreased quality of sleep that takes place during the day in place of the sleep that would take place during normal nighttime sleeping hours.
Circadian Rhythm Disruption
According to the Sleep Disorder Channel website, a disruption in circadian rhythm, or the body's internal clock, is one of the most common side effects of a varied work schedule. When circadian rhythms are frequently disrupted, the body has a hard time resting and rebuilding, notes the website. Certain brain waves, the production of hormones and even the regrowth and regeneration of cells in the body are linked to circadian rhythms. This can make the body more prone to disease and lengthen the healing process.
Cardiovascular Problems
GNM Healthcare suggests that there is an association between cardiovascular problems and varied shift work. It attributes this to the disruption of the natural circadian rhythm, as things like blood pressure, heart rate and even body temperature follow a circadian rhythm. The Canadian Center for Occupational Health and Safety also suggests a link between shift work and heart problems. It suggests that people with varied schedules take steps to be healthier in other ways. Regular exercise and a healthy diet are important for varied shift workers and can help decrease the chances of work-related heart problems.
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