Why Some People Struggle With Motion Sickness?

By Shubhi Kumar
21 May 2025, 20:00 IST

Motion sickness occurs when conflicting signals from the eyes, inner ear, and body confuse the brain. Genetics, age, and sensory processing differences increase susceptibility to symptoms like nausea. Check why!

Vestibular Sensitivity

The inner ear's balance system detects movement. Overactive systems can cause deja vu or paradoxical perception and finally cause motion sickness.

Age and Development

Youngsters and elderly people tend to have somewhat more sensitive vestibular systems, making them more prone to motion sickness.

Sex and Hormones

Women experience more motion sickness during pregnancy and menstruation due to varying hormone levels affecting the vestibular system.

Heredity and Family History

If motion sickness runs in the family, it must mean there are genetic factors affecting balance and sensory processing sensitivity.

Psychological Factors

Anxiety, stress, or negative past experiences with motion may exacerbate the symptoms of motion sickness in some people.

Information credits

This information is sourced from the Cleveland Clinic. However, it is advisable to consult a healthcare professional for personalised suggestions.