Motion Sickness - 3 Doctor-Recommended Tips

Man standing in front of a train going by.

People who frequently get car, sea, or air sick easily and feel queasy while traveling experience a condition called motion sickness.

Motion sickness occurs due to the disturbance in our inner ear, which is caused by lots of movements that usually happen when we are traveling. It causes nausea, headaches, and dizziness while traveling in a car, plane, or boat. Pregnant women and children age two to twelve are at higher risk of getting motion sickness.

In most cases, motion sickness is treatable and easy to manage. If it gets worse to the point that you can't travel, book an appointment with a virtual doctor for motion sickness and relay your symptoms.

A woman looking out of the plane window.

Following are some tips that may help you take control of the situation:

Sit in the Front Seat and Focus

By sitting in the front seat of a car or bus or the upper deck of a boat, you can minimize your chances of getting nauseous. You can also keep your focus on a non moving object at some distance so that you are facing the direction in which you are travelling and helping your visual stimulus. By avoiding looking at the objects passing by, your chances of getting dizzy and sick will subside. If possible, get a window seat and distract yourself by listening to music or having a conversation.

Increase Your Fluid Intake and Avoid Heavy Meals

Drink plenty of water but stay away from sodas, alcohol, and caffeinated drinks. An increased fluid intake will lower the chances of dehydration, which causes nausea. Similarly, if you are prone to vomiting while traveling, avoid having heavy and greasy meals before you travel. If you want to have some food before a journey, have it a couple of hours before so that it is digested before your trip starts.

Moreover, you can have food that is easy to digest, such as veggies, apples, cereals, and sandwiches. Avoid salty crackers. Have some chewing gum to reduce acid reflux. Some studies support consuming ginger helps with motion sickness and vomiting. You can drink some ginger and honey tea to prevent motion sickness.

Get Some Air

Direct the air vents, fans, or air conditioner towards your face, or roll down the windows if you are sitting in a car. You may find it helpful for motion sickness.

You can also change your seating position depending on the available space. Some seating positions help you calm your nerves. If possible, lie down or lay back and recline. You can also rest your head on a headrest and close your eyes.

Try to cut down screen time while traveling. Motion sickness happens due to the incongruence of visual stimulus and inner ear signals. Avoid it by putting down your mobile phone, tablet, laptop, or book.

While these tips are quick ways to help with motion sickness, you may also benefit from professional health guidance so that you travel stress-free.

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At TelMDCare, our team of professional virtual doctors can provide you with online health diagnoses at affordable rates and follow up with consultations and online prescriptions.