Motion sickness is the feeling you get when the motion you visualize is different from the motion you sense with your inner ear. This is a very common condition that occurs with some people who travel by car, aeroplane, train, or boat. Some people even experience motion sickness if they are riding on a roller-coaster or other similar amusement park rides.
Although pregnant women and children can be susceptible to motion sickness, anyone who is travelling is at risk for motion sickness. If you are travelling on a boat, then motion sickness can be considered in the form of seasickness. Other risk factors are included:
- Mode of travel
- Inability to see out of a window
- Poor ventilation in the travelling vehicle
- Any fear or anxiety of travelling
Symptoms of Motion Sickness
Signs and symptoms of motion sickness begin with a feeling of uneasiness which is followed by dizziness and cold sweats. Some people may even exhibit other symptoms such as:
- Nausea
- Vomiting
- Headache
- Pale skin
- Fatigue
- Increase in saliva production
What Causes Motion Sickness?
Motion sickness is caused by the mixed signals which are sent to the brain by your eyes and the inner ear. If you are unable to see the motion your body is feeling or if you cannot feel the motion that your eyes see, then it is likely that your brain will develop some mixed signals and develop some aspect of motion sickness.
Do I Need To Visit A Doctor To Treat Motion Sickness?
Most people with motion sickness do not visit their doctor to treat it. Motion sickness does not require laboratory testing.
Any Home Remedies To Treat Motion Sickness?
Before taking any medications, it is recommended to read the precautions as many of these drugs have side effects, such as:
- Dry mouth
- Drowsiness
- Disorientation
- Blurry vision
But remember that, people who drive vehicles or operate heavy equipment should not take these medications.
Herbs that treat motion sickness are tea, peppermint, and ginger.
There are other ways to treat your motion sickness without any medication. The following list can help you control your motion sickness:
- When flying in an aircraft, sit towards the front, for a smoother ride.
- Eat snacks or light meals a few hours before travelling.
- It is recommended to avoid big or high-fat meals.
- When travelling in a car, it is recommended to sit in the front seat of your car, rest your head against the headrest, keep your eyes on the horizon, and relatively sit still.
- Turn the air vents towards your face when you are travelling in a plane, train, or car.
- Avoid smoking.
- Any short, rapid, or shallow breathing can often lead to motion sickness, therefore concentrate on balancing your breathing slowly and in a deep manner.
Best Allopathic Medicines To Treat Your Motion Sickness!
You can prevent motion sickness by taking medications that you can put on your skin. These drugs can help prevent motion sickness, but cannot cure it. Over-the-counter medications can help relieve your motion sickness in some cases and in some cases can also prevent. Some of the common medications that are used to treat your motion sickness are:
- Dimenhydrinate (Dramamine)
- Scopolamine (Transderm-Scop, transdermal patches)
- Cyclizine (Marezine)
- Meclizine (Antrizine, Antivert, Bonine, Meni-D)
- Diphenhydramine (Benadryl)
Conclusion
There are certain companies that market wristbands and bracelets which claim that they can prevent motion sickness using acupressure technology against certain pressure points that will block the transmission of nausea before your brain can actually register it. Though these products may prove beneficial to a few, not many studies have been conducted to prove efficiency.
So, it is better advised to consult your doctor before finalizing your decision on buying any medication. Make a wise and better decision.