Working the Night Shift

What exactly happens to our system when we work the night shift?  How can we decrease or avoid the possibly damaging effect?

A short interview with Nóra Nagy-László, MD, Occupational Health Doctor, Director of our Occupational Health Program

What exactly happens to our system when we work the night shift? 

The effects of working the night shift depend on the type of work performed.  The demands placed on the body by light or average physical labor or by monotonous work such as watching a conveyor belt are quite different from that of, for example, emergency care (i.e., ambulance work) that carries with it not only great physical demands but great responsibility.  Working the night shift definitely requires a high degree of adaptability, the ability of the system to adapt to the changed waking-sleeping rhythm affected also by age and other existing illnesses.   

A different biorhythm is required since we work during the night and should sleep during the day.  This may cause difficulties, at times, since sleep cannot be commanded.  The life style causes metabolic and endocrine system changes connected with light and darkness.  This waking-sleeping confusion may cause increased stress, working during the night a rise in blood pressure and faster pulse rate and, in those sensitive to these changes, psychological complaints such as depression and nervous fatigue which may lead to the weakening of the immune system.  It is important to mention here that illnesses are not the result of one single factor and, therefore, the night shift cannot be blamed for everything.  The affect of the night shift depends in great measure in what condition we appear at work, how rested we are.

What examinations should we undergo before starting the night shift?

It is good, in every case, to be informed regarding the degree of strain expected to be placed on us by a given job in order to know that in addition to the psychological stress what other risks are involved.  The occupational examination should be complete, covering all areas, and in addition to the usual, should also include ECG, laboratory tests (blood and urinalysis) in order to screen out any possible problems. Problems such as diabetes not responding to medication nor kept in balance with life style, more serious immune system, hematopoietic system or cardiovascular disorders (cardiac arrhythmia or coronary vessel disorder).  In these situations we not only need to consider whether the person is capable of performing the work but whether the work would cause further damage to his or her health.

What would be your advice to those working the night shift to decrease or avoid its damaging effects? 

It helps if we arrive at work (not from a previous one) well rested, eat properly, drink sufficient water and our home environment is supportive since they also have to adapt to this person who is sleeping during the day.

Depending on the work performed, regular breaks should be scheduled and made part of the shift. The workplace should conform to labor safety requirements to ensure that the worker feels safe. Unfortunately, more accidents occur during the night shift.

Feel free to contact our specialists!

At the Buda Health Center, you have the opportunity to attend the private practices of more than 300 renowned specialists, offering expertise in nearly 45 medical specialisms, at five locations. Personalized care is provided by a well-trained and empathetic staff of professionals, who have been working together for a long time. Based on our 24 years of experience and the feedback received from our 450,000 clients, we are constantly working to organize our healthcare services in the most efficient way possible for those who visit us, paying respect to their needs and time.

Book an appointment on weekdays between 08:00 and 20:00 on +36 1 489-5200!