Motion sickness is a common condition that can affect children when they are traveling in a car, plane, boat, or other modes of transportation. It is caused by a disturbance in the inner ear, which is responsible for maintaining balance. Children may experience symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and fatigue.
There are several ways to help prevent motion sickness in children. One method is to ensure they are well-rested before traveling and have had a light meal. It can also be helpful to encourage children to look out the window and focus on a distant object to help stabilize their inner ear.
If a child does develop motion sickness, there are ways to help alleviate their symptoms. Encouraging them to take deep breaths, chew on ginger candies, or sip on ginger tea can help settle their stomach. It is also important to keep them hydrated and provide a cool, fresh environment to help reduce their discomfort.
By understanding the causes and symptoms of motion sickness in children, parents and caregivers can take proactive steps to help prevent and alleviate this common condition when traveling.
Causes of Motion Sickness
When our body receives conflicting signals during movement, such as different directions or angles, motion sickness can occur. It is particularly strong with vertical movements and is common during up and down motions.
Young children between the ages of 3 to 12 are most prone to experiencing motion sickness.
Other factors that can contribute to motion sickness include lack of ventilation, strong smells, reading while in motion, and anxiety or stress. It is believed that motion sickness is caused by a conflict between the sensory inputs the brain receives, leading to nausea, dizziness, and other symptoms.
Symptoms and Treatments
The onset of motion sickness often begins with an upset stomach and can progress to vomiting. The initial step is to stop the activity causing discomfort and let the child walk around. To alleviate symptoms, consider providing a light snack before traveling, redirecting your child’s attention from any queasiness, and encouraging her to look out of the car windows.
In addition to these tips, it may also be helpful to keep the car well-ventilated, avoid heavy meals before traveling, and consider using acupressure wristbands or anti-nausea medications as recommended by a healthcare provider. It’s important to address motion sickness as soon as it occurs to prevent it from worsening and causing further distress to the child.
Prevention and Medication
If your child has a history of motion sickness, discussing medication options with a pediatrician may be beneficial. Seeking medical advice is crucial if symptoms manifest outside of travel situations.
Aligning Senses
To minimize conflicting signals to the brain, ensure that your child’s visual perception matches the movements felt by the inner ear. Opt for front seat positions in cars or seating over the wing on planes.
Proper Nutrition
Offer your child small, plain snacks before and during the journey. Avoid heavy or spicy foods that could upset the stomach. Stick to items like dry toast, apple slices, and bananas while traveling.
Environment and Natural Remedies
Keep the vehicle well-aerated and steer clear of strong odors. Natural remedies such as ginger or peppermint can aid in relieving stomach discomfort. For severe cases, consulting a pediatrician is advisable.
Acupressure Techniques
Applying gentle pressure to specific body points can help alleviate motion sickness symptoms. This traditional approach may assist in interrupting signals of nausea and enhancing blood circulation during travel.
Additional Information
Further insights into motion sickness, including its causes, symptoms, and prevention strategies.
Continue reading below
Motion sickness, also known as travel sickness, can be caused by conflicting sensory signals from the inner ear, eyes, and body. Symptoms may include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and sweating. To prevent motion sickness, it is recommended to sit facing forward, avoid reading or using electronic devices, and focus on the horizon. Ginger and medication such as dimenhydrinate or scopolamine patches can also help alleviate symptoms. It is important to consult a healthcare professional before taking any medication for motion sickness.
Understanding Motion Sickness
Motion sickness arises from conflicting sensory signals communicated to the brain during repeated movements, prompting individuals to experience discomfort.
Common symptoms of motion sickness include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and sweating. It is believed that the discrepancy between what the eyes see and what the inner ear senses leads to the brain being unable to reconcile the conflicting information, causing the symptoms of motion sickness.
There are several strategies that can help alleviate motion sickness, such as focusing on a fixed point in the distance, keeping the windows open for fresh air, and taking medication specifically designed for motion sickness relief. It is important to note that motion sickness can affect anyone, regardless of age or experience with travel, and it is essential to be prepared when embarking on journeys that may trigger these symptoms.
Common Symptoms and Individuals Affected
Children and women are more vulnerable to motion sickness, which can manifest in various scenarios, leading to unease and distress.
Typical Symptoms and Duration
Symptoms of motion sickness encompass nausea, sweating, and dizziness. While symptoms typically subside after motion ceases, they may persist for hours post-journey.
Avoid looking at screens
Try to avoid looking at screens, such as phones, tablets, or laptops, as this can worsen motion sickness symptoms. Instead, focus on looking out the window or at a fixed point in the distance.
Stay hydrated
Drinking plenty of water can help prevent dehydration, which can contribute to motion sickness. Avoid caffeinated or alcoholic beverages, as these can dehydrate you even further.
Avoid strong smells
Avoid strong-smelling foods, perfumes, or air fresheners, as these can trigger or worsen motion sickness. Opt for unscented products and fresh air whenever possible.
Consider medication
If natural remedies are not providing relief, talk to your doctor about over-the-counter or prescription medication options for motion sickness. Antihistamines or scopolamine patches are common choices for preventing symptoms.
Practice acupressure
Applying pressure to the Nei-Kuan acupuncture point on your wrist with special wristbands or by using acupressure bands can help alleviate motion sickness. This technique is safe and easy to use during travels.
Natural treatments for motion sickness
Various techniques, including deep breathing, music therapy, and ginger consumption, can assist in managing motion sickness.
Other natural remedies for motion sickness include acupressure bands, peppermint or chamomile tea, and staying hydrated. It’s also helpful to avoid heavy meals before traveling and to focus on a fixed point in the distance if possible.
If you’re prone to motion sickness, it’s a good idea to plan ahead and pack some of these natural remedies to help alleviate symptoms during your journey. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional before trying any new treatments, especially if you have any underlying health conditions.
Motion sickness medicines
Several over-the-counter medications for motion sickness are available to prevent or alleviate symptoms.
Hyoscine
Hyoscine, or scopolamine, stands out as a highly effective medication for motion sickness relief.
Antihistamines
Antihistamines can be beneficial in managing motion sickness symptoms, yet they may induce drowsiness; select the appropriate type based on age and preference.
Side-effects of motion sickness medicines
Some motion sickness medications may induce drowsiness, so refrain from operating heavy machinery after use.
What can a doctor prescribe for motion sickness?
In cases where over-the-counter remedies prove ineffective, prescription anti-sickness medications may be necessary, warranting consultation with healthcare providers.
Hyoscine patch
For effective motion sickness relief, consider utilizing Hyoscine patches placed behind the ear.
Prochlorperazine
Prescription-only medicines like prochlorperazine and metoclopramide can aid in managing motion sickness symptoms effectively.
Metoclopramide
Ondansetron, a potent antiemetic medication primarily used for chemotherapy-related nausea, can also assist in alleviating motion sickness symptoms.
What should I do if I’m actually sick?
Vomiting may offer temporary relief from motion sickness symptoms. Follow specific guidelines to alleviate discomfort effectively.
What is disembarkation syndrome?
Mal de debarquement refers to the feeling of instability post-travel, often linked to overstimulation of the balance organs during the journey. Persistent mal de debarquement syndrome may necessitate medical attention for ongoing symptoms.
Dr. Mary Lowth authored the original document.
Further reading and references
- Disembarkation syndrome is a rare condition that affects some individuals after they have traveled by sea or air.
- Symptoms may include feelings of rocking, swaying, or bobbing even when standing still, and can last for weeks, months, or even years after the journey has ended.
- Treatment options may include physical therapy, medication, or vestibular rehabilitation exercises.
- If you are experiencing symptoms of disembarkation syndrome, it is important to seek medical attention for proper diagnosis and management of your symptoms.
Article history
The content on this page has been provided and verified by qualified clinicians. Next review: 8 Jul 2027. Latest version: 9 Jul 2024. Last updated by. Peer-reviewed by.
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Motion sickness, known as travel sickness, car sickness, or sea sickness, encompasses symptoms like nausea, vomiting, and clamminess. Gazing outside the vehicle or focusing on the horizon can aid in prevention.
Nausea stands as the primary symptom of motion sickness, accompanied by retching, drowsiness, cold sweating, and other indications. It can be triggered by conflicting sensory signals that confuse the brain.
A medical consultation isn’t mandatory for a motion sickness diagnosis. You may experience it during travel, particularly if you have a pre-existing condition that induces nausea.
The following tips can help prevent motion sickness: fixate on the horizon, maintain stillness, and practice mindful breathing. Wearing pressure bands on the wrists might provide relief, and some individuals may acclimatize to motion over a few days.
Consider using motion sickness medications for prevention, while being mindful of potential side effects like drowsiness. Seek guidance, especially if pregnant, taking other medications, or administering to children.
Consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist for additional information on preventing and addressing motion sickness. Visit the Australian Government Smart Traveller website for more travel health advice. Contact the healthdirect helpline at 1800 022 222 for assistance. Utilize the Service Finder to locate health facilities.