Motion Sickness

You’re finally going to meet your girlfriend’s father. He’s invited you fishing with the family. You dress up in your best clothes (for fishing) and off you go. You step into the boat, and smile your best smile. But something changes when the boat starts rocking. Your insides begin to churn. ‘What’s happening to me?’ you ask yourself. But it’s too late. You’ve thrown up all over your best clothes and her’s and her father’s too.

What caused it? The answer is simple. You suffer from motion sickness.

What is motion sickness?

Motion sickness is defined as the ‘normal response to real, perceived or even anticipated movement’. Motion sickness can strike anywhere and at anytime – when you’re on a moving boat, train or airplane; or even when you’re in a car; Jumping onto that amusement park ride can also get you sick, if you suffer from this condition.

SIGNS TO WATCH OUT FOR

• Feeling nauseous
• Breaking into a cold sweat
• Vomiting
• Sudden onset of fatigue
• A nagging headache
• Paleness of the skin (in some cases)

WHAT CAUSES MOTION SICKNESS?

When a person is on a moving vehicle; his/her body, inner ear and eyes send out conflicting signals to the brain. Sometimes, just anticipating movement, and not really experiencing it, is also adequate to trigger the symptoms.

TIPS TO PREVENT ITS OCCURRENCE

When in a car

• Try to sit on the front seat of the car, accompanying the driver
• Do not attempt reading while the car is in motion
• Keep your eyes fixed on the horizon ahead
• Place your head on the headrest. This will help you keep it still
• Do not smoke

When on a plane

• Keep off alcohol for 24 hours before boarding a flight
• Ditch salty foods, such as chips, while you’re in the waiting lounge
• Sit towards the front of the aircraft; or ask for a seat next to the wings
• Turn the air vents in the direction of your face. It can have a calming effect.

When aboard a boat/ship

• Specifically request for a cabin on the upper deck of the ship
• When you’re on the deck, remember to keep your vision focused on the horizon.

SUGGESTED TREATMENT

While there are medications available in the market to combat this problem, you might want to experiment with other mind-body practices if you are a frequent traveler.

COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPY

This form of therapy focuses on lessening the anxiety of those who frequently suffer from motion sickness. While undergoing this therapy, people are exposed to a situation that causes motion sickness. They are introduced to this movement slowly, yet steadily. It is not taken to a level where the symptoms become overwhelming. The longer they are able to tolerate the movement, the higher their confidence levels are about combating similar situations.

There are other methods of treatment that include Biofeedback Training and Relaxation; and Breathing Techniques. These have proven to be effective as well.

Popularity: 3% [?]