Motion sickness can turn any journey into a miserable experience. Whether you are on a plane, a boat, or just a bumpy car ride, the symptoms can strike unexpectedly and leave you feeling nauseous, dizzy, and uncomfortable. But why are some people more prone to motion sickness than others? And more importantly, how can you manage it? Let’s explore the reasons behind motion sickness and effective strategies for managing it.
Understanding Motion Sickness
Motion sickness occurs when there is a disconnect between the motion your eyes see and the motion sensed by your inner ear. This sensory conflict sends mixed signals to the brain, triggering symptoms like nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and sweating. Understanding the underlying reasons can help you take proactive steps to prevent or reduce its impact.
- Sensory Mismatch: One of the primary causes of motion sickness is the mismatch between what your eyes see and what your inner ear senses. When you’re reading a book or looking at your phone in a moving vehicle, your eyes are focused on a stationary object while your inner ear detects movement. This conflict confuses your brain and can lead to motion sickness.
Managing Tip:
To minimise this sensory mismatch, try to focus on the horizon or a stable object outside the vehicle. This helps align your visual and vestibular systems, reducing the chances of motion sickness. Avoid activities that require close-up focus, like reading or using electronic devices.
- Genetics and Family History: Believe it or not, your susceptibility to motion sickness can be inherited. If your parents or siblings experience motion sickness, you’re more likely to be prone to it as well. Genetics play a significant role in determining how sensitive your inner ear is to motion, making it a key factor in your likelihood of experiencing motion sickness.
Managing Tip:
While you can’t change your genetics, you can take preventive measures if you know you’re prone to motion sickness. Before traveling, consider taking over-the-counter medications designed to prevent motion sickness. Always consult with a healthcare provider to find the best option for you.
- Anxiety and Stress: Anxiety and stress can exacerbate the symptoms of motion sickness. When you’re anxious or stressed, your body releases certain hormones that can make you more sensitive to motion. This heightened sensitivity can increase the likelihood of experiencing motion sickness.
Managing Tip:
Practicing relaxation techniques can help manage motion sickness. Deep breathing exercises, meditation, and progressive muscle relaxation can reduce anxiety and make your body less responsive to motion triggers. Additionally, ensuring you get a good night’s sleep before traveling can help keep stress levels in check.
- Sensitivity to Motion: Some people are naturally more sensitive to motion due to their vestibular system’s heightened responsiveness. This sensitivity means that even minor movements can trigger motion sickness symptoms. People with inner ear disorders or migraines may also be more susceptible to motion sickness.
Managing Tip:
If you have a heightened sensitivity to motion, choose your seat wisely when traveling. For example, sitting in the front seat of a car, over the wings of an airplane, or in the middle of a boat where motion is less pronounced can help reduce symptoms. Additionally, consider using acupressure wristbands, which apply gentle pressure to specific points believed to help prevent nausea.
Tips to Avoid Motion Sickness
While understanding the reasons behind motion sickness is crucial, having practical tips to manage it can make all the difference in your travel experience. Here are some additional strategies for managing motion sickness:
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Stay Hydrated and Eat Light
Staying hydrated is essential for managing motion sickness. Dehydration can exacerbate nausea, so drink plenty of water before and during your journey. Additionally, eat light meals and avoid heavy, greasy, or spicy foods that can upset your stomach.
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Use Natural Remedies
Natural remedies like ginger and peppermint can help soothe your stomach and reduce nausea. Ginger candies, ginger tea, or peppermint gum are easy to carry and can be effective in managing motion sickness.
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Fresh Air and Ventilation
Good ventilation can help reduce symptoms of motion sickness. If possible, open a window to let in fresh air or use an air vent to keep the air circulating. Stale or stuffy air can worsen nausea, so maintaining good airflow is crucial.
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Medications and Supplements
Over-the-counter medications like dimenhydrinate or meclizine can be effective in preventing and treating motion sickness. Always consult your healthcare provider before taking any medication, especially if you have underlying health conditions or are pregnant.
Dealing with Motion Sickness: What to Do When It Hits
Despite your best efforts, sometimes motion sickness can still strike. Here are some tips for dealing with motion sickness if you start feeling unwell:
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Find a Stable Position
If you’re on a boat or plane, try to find a stable position where the motion is less pronounced. Lying down with your eyes closed can help reduce sensory input and ease symptoms.
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Focus on Your Breathing
Deep, slow breathing can help calm your nervous system and reduce nausea. Inhale deeply through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and exhale slowly through your mouth.
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Stay Calm
Panicking can worsen motion sickness symptoms. Try to stay calm and remind yourself that the symptoms will pass. Distract yourself with calming music or a soothing podcast.
Managing motion sickness requires understanding its causes and implementing effective strategies to prevent and alleviate symptoms. By recognising the sensory mismatch, acknowledging genetic predispositions, reducing anxiety, and managing sensitivity to motion, you can take proactive steps to enjoy a more comfortable travel experience. With these tips to avoid motion sickness and practical advice for dealing with it when it hits, you can make your next journey smoother and more enjoyable. Safe travels!
Reference:
https://www.passporthealthusa.com/2015/03/is–motion–sickness–genetic/
https://health.ucdavis.edu/news/headlines/travel–and–motion–sickness–an–expertweighs–in–on–dramamine–ginger–and–more/2021/07 https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug–6697/bonine–oral/details