Motion Sickness

Introduction:

Motion sickness, also known as travel sickness, is a common condition that occurs when there is a mismatch between the movement your inner ear senses and the movement you see. It can happen during car rides, boat trips, flights, or amusement park rides and can affect people of all ages.

Causes:

Motion sickness is caused by conflicting signals sent to the brain from your eyes, inner ears, and muscles. For example, when you’re reading a book in a moving car, your inner ears sense the motion, but your eyes are focused on a stationary object. This sensory mismatch confuses the brain and triggers symptoms.

Common Triggers Include:

Traveling by car, plane, boat, or train
Virtual reality experiences
Watching fast-moving screens or playing video games
Amusement park rides

Symptoms:

Nausea or vomiting
Dizziness or lightheadedness
Sweating
Increased saliva production
Headache
Fatigue
Pale skin
Cold chills

Diagnosis:

Motion sickness is usually diagnosed based on your symptoms and history. There are no specific tests needed unless the doctor suspects an underlying inner ear problem or neurological issue.

Treatment:

Mild motion sickness often resolves on its own, but treatment can help reduce discomfort:

Medications:

Antihistamines (e.g., meclizine, dimenhydrinate): Help prevent or reduce nausea and dizziness.
Scopolamine patches: Applied behind the ear to prevent motion sickness (especially for cruises or long travel).
Promethazine or ondansetron: For more severe nausea, prescribed by a doctor.

Natural Remedies and Tips:

Ginger: Ginger tea or ginger tablets can help ease nausea.
Peppermint: Peppermint oil or tea may soothe the stomach.
Acupressure wristbands: These apply pressure on specific points (like the P6 point on the wrist) to reduce nausea.
Lemon: Sucking on a lemon or lemon-based candy can help some people.
Stay hydrated: Sip water or clear fluids to stay calm and prevent dehydration.
Fresh air: Keep a window slightly open or use a fan for ventilation.
Focus on the horizon: Looking at a stable point can reduce sensory mismatch.
Avoid reading or screen use while traveling.
Sit in the front seat of a car or near the wings on an airplane.

Prevention Tips:

Eat a light meal before traveling. Avoid spicy, greasy, or heavy foods.
Choose the smoothest spot in the vehicle (e.g., mid-ship on a boat, over the wing on a plane).
Lie down and close your eyes if possible.
Use distraction techniques like music or conversation.

When to See a Doctor:

If motion sickness is severe, frequent, or doesn’t improve with usual remedies, consult a doctor. It could indicate an inner ear disorder or other medical condition.

Summary:

Motion sickness can be uncomfortable but is usually manageable with simple lifestyle changes, medications, and natural remedies. Understanding your triggers and preparing ahead can help you enjoy your travels with greater ease.

Dr. Karuturi Subrahmanyam, MD, FRCP (London), FACP (USA)

Internal Medicine Specialist

Kify Hospital

Danavaipeta

Rajahmundry

Phone : 85000 23456