First Aid for Motion Sickness
Motion sickness is a common condition triggered during travel by car, ship, plane, or train. It happens when your brain receives conflicting signals from your eyes and inner ear. For example, your inner ear may detect motion, but your eyes tell your brain you’re stationary—especially when reading or looking at a screen. This sensory mismatch can lead to nausea, dizziness, and other symptoms that make travel uncomfortable.
While motion sickness often subsides once the movement stops, it can seriously affect travel plans and well-being. Knowing how to manage symptoms early and take preventive measures can help reduce discomfort.
Common Symptoms of Motion Sickness
Motion sickness can begin with uneasiness and escalate quickly. These are the most common symptoms:
| Symptom | Description |
|---|---|
| Nausea | Queasy stomach, urge to vomit |
| Vomiting | Forceful emptying of stomach contents |
| Dizziness | Feeling lightheaded or unsteady |
| Sweating | Cold, clammy skin and excessive perspiration |
| Malaise | A general sense of being unwell |
| Drowsiness | Sudden tiredness or desire to sleep |
| Fatigue | Ongoing tiredness even after motion stops |
Some people may also experience headaches, pale skin, increased salivation, or loss of appetite.
What You Can Do at Home or During Travel
Most mild cases of motion sickness can be managed without emergency care. Try these first aid steps during travel:
- Change seating position. Sit in the front seat of a car, near the wing of a plane, or mid-ship near water level for better stability.
- Look at the horizon. Focus your eyes on a fixed point in the distance.
- Keep your head still. Use a headrest or pillow to reduce head movement.
- Avoid reading or using screens. while the vehicle is in motion.
- Take slow, deep breaths and try to relax your body.
- Open a window or direct air vents toward your face if possible.
Encourage the person to lie down if symptoms worsen. Sip water or suck on ginger candy to help with nausea.
Where to Sit to Minimize Symptoms
Choosing the right seat during travel makes a noticeable difference:
- Car: Sit in the front passenger seat.
- Ship: Choose a cabin near the middle of the vessel, close to the waterline.
- Plane: Select a seat over the wings, preferably near the front.
- Train: Face forward in a seat near the front and by a window.
Helpful Travel Tips
If you’re prone to motion sickness, you can take proactive steps to reduce the likelihood of symptoms:
- Eat a light, bland meal before traveling—avoid heavy, greasy, or spicy foods.
- Stay away from strong smells such as perfumes or gasoline.
- Dress in comfortable, loose-fitting clothing.
- Avoid alcohol or caffeine before and during travel.
- Break up long trips with rest stops for fresh air and movement.
- Recline the seat slightly and close your eyes if symptoms begin.
Medications and Remedies
Several over-the-counter and prescription options are available for prevention and treatment:
Over-the-Counter Medications
- Dimenhydrinate: For adults and children over 2 years old; take 30–60 minutes before travel.
- Meclizine: Causes less drowsiness and is longer-lasting.
- Promethazine: Can be prescribed by a doctor; may cause drowsiness.
Prescription Options
- Scopolamine: A patch placed behind the ear, effective for long trips; apply several hours before travel as directed by a healthcare provider.
Natural Remedies
- Ginger: Use ginger capsules, tea, or ginger ale to ease nausea.
- Plain Crackers or Bread: Can settle an uneasy stomach.
- Peppermint Lozenges or Oil: May help soothe nausea.
Possible Side Effects
Motion sickness medications can have side effects, especially those that act on the nervous system:
- Drowsiness or sedation
- Dry mouth
- Blurred vision
- Dizziness or disorientation
Do not drive or operate machinery after taking medications like dimenhydrinate or promethazine. Read all labels carefully and follow dosage instructions, especially for children or older adults.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Most cases of motion sickness are not serious. However, contact a healthcare provider if:
- Symptoms persist after the motion has stopped.
- Vomiting continues and leads to dehydration.
- Drowsiness is extreme or worsens with medication.
- There are signs of an allergic reaction to medication.
Seek emergency care if someone becomes confused, faint, or unresponsive after medication or if vomiting includes blood.
Prevention Tips
Taking steps before and during travel can greatly reduce the likelihood of motion sickness:
- Plan Ahead: Take preventive medication before symptoms start.
- Choose Seating Wisely: Find the most stable area in the vehicle or vessel.
- Hydrate: Drink plenty of water, especially in warm environments.
- Avoid Triggers: Don’t read, and minimize screen time while in motion.
- Use Acupressure Bands: These wristbands apply pressure to points believed to reduce nausea.
If motion sickness affects your quality of life or ability to travel, talk to a healthcare provider about long-term strategies or prescription treatments.
