How Do I Manage Motion Sickness?

Motion sickness can turn an exciting journey into an uncomfortable ordeal, affecting up to 50% of people at some point in their lives. Whether you’re planning a road trip, cruise, or flight, how do I manage motion sickness?

The most effective way to manage motion sickness is to take an over-the-counter antihistamine like dimenhydrinate (Dramamine) or meclizine (Bonine) about 30-60 minutes before travel begins.

While medication can be helpful, it’s not the only solution, and some people prefer to avoid the drowsiness that often comes with these medications. Keep reading to discover natural prevention methods and practical techniques that can help you combat motion sickness without relying solely on drugs.

Natural Ways To Prevent Motion Sickness

Several drug-free strategies can effectively prevent or reduce the symptoms of motion sickness. Sitting in a stable position, such as the front seat of a car or the center of an airplane, helps minimize the sensation of movement.

For group travel, vehicle choice and seating arrangements become especially important. When planning family reunions, group vacations, or extended trips with multiple passengers, families often rent a 15-passenger van specifically because of the motion sickness advantages these larger vehicles provide.

Larger vehicles offer several advantages for motion-sick travelers that smaller cars simply can’t provide. The extra space allows passengers to lie down flat if nausea develops, which can significantly reduce symptoms by helping the inner ear recalibrate. Additionally, larger vans typically have better ventilation systems and more windows, providing the fresh air circulation that’s crucial for preventing and managing motion sickness. The ability to move around within the vehicle, even slightly, can also help reset your body’s balance system during longer trips.

Dietary choices also play a crucial role in prevention. Eating a light meal before traveling and avoiding heavy, greasy, or spicy foods can help prevent nausea. Ginger, whether in the form of tea, capsules, or candies, has been shown to have natural anti-nausea properties.

When Should I Start Taking Motion Sickness Precautions?

Timing is essential when managing motion sickness. For medication, taking it 30-60 minutes before travel allows it to reach full effectiveness before motion exposure begins. For natural remedies like ginger, consuming it about 30 minutes before travel is ideal.

It’s also important to start implementing positioning strategies as soon as you board your mode of transportation. Waiting until you feel symptoms often means that preventive measures are no longer fully effective.

What If I Start Getting Motion Sick During Travel?

If motion sickness develops during travel, several immediate interventions can help. Opening a window for fresh air, focusing on a fixed point in the distance, and taking slow, deep breaths can provide relief. Pressure point wristbands, which stimulate the P6 acupressure point, can be applied at any time during travel.

For severe symptoms, taking a break from the motion by stopping the car or walking around on a boat (when safe to do so) can help reset your body’s balance system. Sipping water and avoiding looking at phones or books until symptoms subside is also recommended.

Can Motion Sickness Get Better Over Time? 

Motion sickness sensitivity can decrease with repeated exposure, though this process requires patience and consistency. This phenomenon, known as habituation, occurs when your brain gradually adapts to motion that previously caused discomfort. Sailors, for instance, often report that their seasickness diminishes after several days at sea.  

However, the habituation process should be approached carefully and gradually. Starting with shorter trips and slowly increasing duration can help build tolerance without overwhelming your system. It’s important to note that this adaptation may be temporary and could require periodic “maintenance” exposure to maintain effectiveness.

Which Age Groups Are Most Affected By Motion Sickness?

Children between the ages of 2 and 12 are particularly susceptible to motion sickness, with the peak typically occurring around age 9. However, symptoms often improve as children enter their teens. Adults of any age can experience motion sickness, though women tend to be more affected than men, especially during pregnancy. 

The elderly may also experience an increased sensitivity to motion sickness, partly due to changes in their vestibular system. Understanding your age-related risk can help you prepare appropriately for travel and take preventive measures when needed. Additionally, knowing that children are more susceptible can help parents plan with appropriate strategies and medications suitable for young travelers.

Taking The First Step

Before your next trip, test your chosen motion sickness management strategy during a short car ride around your neighborhood. This trial run will help you determine which prevention method works best for you and whether you experience any unwanted side effects from medication, allowing you to adjust your approach before embarking on a longer journey.