We’ve all gone through that phase when travelling made us sick. Some people continue to experience the condition even in adulthood. In certain cases, individuals cannot even bear the smell of the vehicle or may develop symptoms prior to the journey. If you’re someone who has had or still has a similar experience, then we’ve got you covered.
Know all about the triggers of travel or motion sickness and ways you can manage, alleviate, or treat symptoms.
Also Read: 8 Tips To Reduce Nausea Symptoms
What Causes Motion Sickness?
Motion sickness occurs when your brain is conflicted between the messages your body sends to it.
In general, your eyes, inner ear, muscles, and joints all work together to tell your brain exactly how you're moving. For instance, if you're driving a car, your eyes see the road ahead, your inner ear senses the car's turning and acceleration, and your muscles and joints feel the pressure of the seat and steering wheel.
However, motion sickness happens when your brain gets confused by mixed messages from your body. Imagine being a passenger in a car. Your eyes see a stationary scene outside the window, while your inner ear senses the car's movements. This mix-up, then, throws your brain off balance, leading to nausea and dizziness.
According to StatPearls Publishing, motion sickness begins around age six and peaks at age nine, with a subsequent decline during the teenage years due to habituation.
The research suggests that it is more prevalent among women than men and that the elderly are the least susceptible to the condition.
Some people may also be at a greater risk of motion sickness due to certain factors, such as a family history of motion sickness, an inner ear disorder, menstrual periods, migraines, and more.
Common Symptoms Of Motion Sickness
Here are some common signs of motion sickness:
- Nausea and vomiting
- Sweating
- Feel unwell
- Headaches and dizziness
- Sleepiness
- Shortness of breath
How To Alleviate And Treat Symptoms?
If you're in a moving car or a vehicle, there are some quick measures to cure motion sickness:
- Roll down your windows to get some fresh air.
- Avoid sitting in an enclosed vehicle with the AC on.
- Redirect your gaze, meaning look at distant objects.
- Lean back on your seat and close your eyes.
- Sip on some refreshing drinks.
It is a common claim that staying on an empty stomach can help with motion sickness. However, there is no strong evidence backing the claim. Instead, you can resort to these helpful tips:
- Stay hydrated and drink enough water.
- Have a light, low-fat meal before the trip.
- Avoid drinking and smoking.
- Avoid foods that upset your stomach.
Conclusion
Motion sickness is a common problem that affects many people around the world. With increasing age, the symptoms may subside, but some people may still have the condition in adulthood. If you're someone who has motion sickness, it is important to stay prepared. When you're in the vehicle, ensure that you sit in a position that helps keep your eyes and inner eyes in sync. You can sit in the front seat if you're travelling by car; if on a boat, go up to the deck; and if flying by aeroplane, sit by the window. If your symptoms are severe, consult a doctor for medications that may help alleviate them.