Planes, Trains, Boats, and Automobiles: What You Should Know About Motion Sickness
Motion sickness is a common occurrence. This reaction to real or perceived motion happens to most individuals at some point in their lifetime. Nausea and vomiting are the most prominent symptoms, but you may also experience headache, sweating, faster breathing, yawning, dizziness, and irritability. There are ways to manage motion sickness, and it is important to have a plan in place to avoid feeling ill.
What causes motion sickness?
Motion sickness occurs when there is a mismatch in your brain between what you see and what you feel (you are still, but the vehicle is moving). Although this is usually associated with actual motion, this feeling can also occur with virtual reality or video experiences.
Who is most often affected by motion sickness?
Although motion sickness can affect anyone, it is most likely to occur in children between the ages of 6 and 12 years of age, pregnant women, and individuals that are very athletic. Older adults are less likely to be affected by motion. Women are more likely to experience motion sickness than men due to hormonal fluctuations. People who experience migraines or who have inner ear conditions may also be at a higher risk of experiencing motion sickness.
How do you treat motion sickness?
It is easier to prevent motion sickness than to try to treat it after symptoms begin. If you know that you are prone to motion sickness, it is important to take preventative measures before you begin travel.
What can I do to prevent feeling ill?
Here are actions you can take to prevent or reduce motion sickness:
- Start healthy: Be well rested and stay hydrated.
- Reduce motion: Sit in the front seat of a vehicle, over the wings on a plane, or be near the midpoint and a low deck on a ship.
- Look at the horizon: The front seat or one near a window will provide this view.
- Control your environment: Get fresh air and avoid smoke and other unpleasant odors.
- Avoid additional visual stimulation: Do not read or watch videos.
- Eat wisely: Avoid large meals, eat plain food (not spicy or greasy). Do not drink alcohol or caffeine.
- Change your position: Reduce head and body movement. If possible, lie down flat and close your eyes.
There are many OTC medications for motion sickness. Which one is best for me?
Antihistamines are frequently recommended to prevent motion sickness. When selecting medication, be aware that manufacturers may use a similar brand name for products with different active ingredients. It is best to review the generic name carefully to make sure you get your desired medication.
| Antihistamine | Brand Names | Ages | Directions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dimenhydrinate | Dramamine Original | Adults and children 2 years of age and older. |
Take every 4-6 hours (adults). Take every 6-8 hours for children. |
| Meclizine | Bonine, Dramamine Less Drowsy | Adults and children 12 years of age and older. | Take once daily. |
| Diphenhydramine* | Benadryl | Adults and children 2 years of age and older. | Take every 4-6 hours. |
* Is not FDA approved for motion sickness but can be used if other options are not available.
Take antihistamine medications to help prevent motion sickness a couple of hours before traveling or in anticipation of rough seas when cruising. Know that the above antihistamines cause some degree of drowsiness. One study demonstrated that while meclizine may cause less drowsiness than dimenhydrinate, it also may not be as effective at controlling motion sickness. Diphenhydramine commonly causes drowsiness. Other side effects of antihistamines include dry mouth, dizziness, and blurred vision.
What about alternative medicine remedies?
A couple alternative treatments are available for the management of motion sickness. Ginger may help to reduce motion sickness symptoms when taken prior to travel. However, ginger may interact with certain medications and used with caution in older adults, so check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking it.
An acupressure band worn at a certain place on the wrist may be helpful, but more studies are necessary to confirm effectiveness.
Are scopolamine patches an option for me?
Scopolamine patches are an effective treatment in the management of motion sickness symptoms and cause less drowsiness than antihistamines. Place the patch on the neck just behind the ear at least 4 hours before travel. Change the patch every 3 days if needed for a longer time to control motion sickness. Scopolamine is not FDA approved for use in children. In older adults (> 65 years of age) use with caution due to an increased risk of side effects.
Is it possible to have motion sickness, which starts after the trip has ended?
Yes! The sensation of rocking or movement when sitting still can occur, especially after sea travel. It usually goes away without treatment, but if it continues talk to your doctor.
Summary
Motion sickness is a common condition that can make travel unpleasant. With preparation ahead of your trip, you can reduce or avoid symptoms. Talk to your pharmacist or doctor about the best strategies and treatment to manage motion sickness.