Do you feel sick while traveling? Try these 5 tips before your trip to avoid motion sickness

Motion sickness, also known as sea sickness or automobile sickness, is a common inner ear disorder caused by constant motion. Motion sickness can happen to anyone, but the sensitivity to it varies from person to person. Although it may be impossible to avoid all episodes of motion sickness, the following guidelines may help you prevent or reduce the intensity of motion sickness.

When the motion you perceive conflicts with the motion detected by your inner ear, motion sickness results. This can cause vertigo, nausea and vomiting. Motion sickness can occur in a car, as well as on a train, plane, boat, or ride at an amusement park. Although there are ways to avoid and manage motion sickness, it can make traveling unpleasant.

Motion sickness can affect anyone, although it is more common in women and children. When traveling, you can take precautions to reduce your chances of getting sick.

What causes motion sickness?

Your inner ear, muscles, joints and other movement-sensing organs in your body send information to your brain. When these segments generate conflicting signals, your brain is unable to determine whether you are moving or stationary. You feel nauseous because of your brain’s panic reaction.

Here are some tips, following which can significantly reduce your nausea and sickness:

watch what you eat

Before and during your trip, keep track of your food, drink and alcohol consumption. As well as excessive drinking, foods or drinks that ‘don’t make you agree’ or make you feel particularly full should be avoided.

strong food odor

Strong food odors should be avoided to prevent nausea.

lowest speed seat

Choose a seat that gives you the least amount of movement. The quietest part of an airplane is at the top of the wing, in the middle.

avoid reading

Avoid reading while traveling if you are prone to motion sickness

get fresh air

If possible, open a window or other source of fresh air and get some fresh air.

When to call the doctor?

You should call your healthcare provider if you experience:

Chronic, persistent nausea or vomiting.

Symptoms of motion sickness when you are not involved in any moving activity.

Symptoms of dehydration.