Feeling sick while traveling? Here's what causes motion sickness and how to prevent it
It strikes when your brain gets mixed signals from your eyes, ears, and body confusing motion for danger. The result? Nausea, headaches, cold sweats, and an urgent wish to get off the ride. But don't cancel your travel plans just yet. With the right know-how and a few smart tricks, you can keep motion sickness at bay and enjoy your adventure whether you are soaring, sailing, or road-tripping.
What is motion sickness
Motion sickness is a widespread condition that happens when your brain gets contradictory messages about motion and position from your eyes, inner ears, muscles, and joints.
It generally hits when you're stationary but being transported by an outside force—like traveling by car, flying on an airplane, or riding on a boat.
Some individuals may even suffer from virtual motion sickness (VMS) during video game play or from the use of virtual reality equipment. While it is not dangerous, motion sickness is very uncomfortable and can intrude on your travel or recreation quality.
Causes of motion sickness
Motion sickness is caused by a conflict between sensory inputs. For instance, while driving in a vehicle:
Your eyes perceive moving surroundings, which triggers a message to the brain that you're moving.
At the same time, your inner ear and body might detect stationary status if you're sitting and not actually moving.
This conflict between senses leads your brain to get it wrong, and that leads to nausea and other bodily reactions.
Common causes include:
You can get motion sickness on:
Car, bus, or train travel
Flights
Boat cruises or trips
Amusement park rides
Playing video or virtual reality games
Symptoms of motion sickness
Symptoms of motion sickness are mild to severe and may develop gradually or abruptly. These include:
Nausea and vomiting
Dizziness or loss of balance
Headache
Cold sweats
Fatigue or drowsiness
Increased breathing rate or feeling the need for more air
Excessive salivation
Irritability in children
Who gets motion sickness most often
Motion sickness is not a certainty for anyone, but there are some people who are more prone to it. Risk factors are:
Children aged 2-12 years
People with a family history of motion sickness
Women with menstruation or pregnancy
People with migraine disorders or those with Parkinson's disease, as well as inner ear illnesses such as BPPV (Benign Paroxysmal Positional Vertigo)
When to worry about motion sickness symptoms
Motion sickness is temporary and harmless in most cases, but frequent or severe symptoms can lead to:
Dehydration due to excessive vomiting
Low blood pressure (hypotension)
Discomfort and distress even after stopping the motion
If they happen without any movement or last longer than expected, it might be a sign of an underlying condition and needs to be checked by a healthcare professional.
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How is motion sickness diagnosed
There is no test for motion sickness. Your doctor will normally:
Take an in-depth medical history
Ask questions about symptoms and causative factors
Do a physical exam, including tests for inner ear or balance problems
Ways to
prevent motion sickness
while traveling
While motion sickness can't always be avoided, numerous easy measures can minimize symptoms or bring relief:
Natural remedies and lifestyle changes:
Fresh air: Open windows or utilize vents to maximize airflow.
Visual concentration: Keep eyes on the horizon or stationary objects far away. Do not read or watch screens.
Rest and relax: Lean back and shut your eyes.
Ginger tea or candies: Calm the nausea.
Peppermint: Mints or tea soothe the stomach.
Wristbands and glasses: Others find relief through acupressure bands or motion sickness goggles.
Controlling virtual motion sickness
If symptoms are due to VR or gaming, the following may help:
Take frequent breaks
Shorten playtime
Adjust display settings to minimize screen flicker and delay
Can motion sickness be prevented
You may not always avoid motion sickness, but proper planning can significantly reduce your chances.
Seating advice for various means of transport:
Car: Ride in the front passenger seat
Plane: Sit behind the wing
Train: Face forward with a window seat
Boat: Remain in the middle of the ship, preferably on the top or bottom deck
Cruise ship: Reserve cabins mid-ship and low to the waterline
Prevention tips before travel:
Eat a light, plain meal beforehand (avoid greasy and heavy foods)
Drink plenty of water
Avoid smoking and alcohol
Do not travel on an absolutely empty stomach, which could worsen symptoms
When should you seek a doctor
Visit a doctor if:
Symptoms are persistent when at rest
You have frequent nausea or vomiting
You are showing signs of dehydration, such as dry mouth, dark-colored urine, or dizziness.
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