Shift Work Harms Heart Health, Expert Warns
Work on a shift schedule poses serious health risks, particularly for the cardiovascular system, due to disrupted circadian rhythms, dehydration, and emotional stress, according to medical expert Elvira Kachirova.
Consensus
- Shift work is a serious stressor for the cardiovascular system.
- The shift schedule disrupts circadian rhythms.
- High temperatures and dry air on work sites contribute to dehydration.
- Night shifts increase the workload on the heart.
- Dehydration increases the risk of thrombosis.
- The first few days after arriving at a work site and the first day at home are particularly dangerous.
- Experts recommend drinking 2–2.5 liters of water per day while on shift work.
- Smoking should be avoided during shift work.
- A gradual transition out of the work mode is advised.
Points of divergence
- The shift schedule causes a double change in time zones and load regime, likened to resetting precise clocks. — vm
- Workers suffer from emotional stress due to life-threatening risks and separation from family. — vm
- The most dangerous days are the 2nd–3rd day after arrival and the first day at home. — riamo
- Night shifts are associated with significantly higher rates of hypertension compared to day shifts. — riamo
Coverage (2 sources)
- What is the danger of working on a shift — Вечерняя Москва
- Doctor Khachirova named dangerous days for the hearts of shift workers — РИАМО