Have you ever felt nauseous or dizzy while riding in a car, especially on long trips? It’s a common experience that affects many people.

This condition is known as motion sickness, and it occurs when there is a mismatch between what your eyes perceive and what your inner ear senses. Motion sickness can range from mild discomfort to severe symptoms that may require medication. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at motion sickness, how it happens, and what you can do to prevent or treat it.

What is Motion Sickness?

Motion sickness, also known as travel sickness, is a type of motion-related sickness that occurs when there is a discrepancy between what your eyes see and what your inner ears sense.

The inner ear is responsible for balance and the perception of movement, while the eyes help us see our surroundings. When these two sensory systems send conflicting messages to the brain, it can cause motion sickness.

Motion sickness can happen when traveling by car, boat, airplane, or any other form of transportation. It can also occur while playing video games, using virtual reality devices, or watching certain movies or TV shows.

What are the Symptoms of Motion Sickness?

The symptoms of motion sickness can vary from person to person, but they often include:.

Nausea
Vomiting
Dizziness
Sweating
Pale skin
Headache
Fatigue

In severe cases, motion sickness can also lead to dehydration and malaise.

What Causes Motion Sickness?

Motion sickness occurs when there is a conflict between the visual and vestibular systems. The visual system relies on what we see with our eyes, while the vestibular system is responsible for our sense of balance and orientation.

When these two systems send different signals to the brain, it can cause motion sickness.

For example, when riding in a car, your eyes may see that you’re sitting still, but your inner ears sense the movement of the vehicle. This discrepancy can cause confusion in the brain, leading to motion sickness symptoms.

Other factors that may contribute to motion sickness include:.

Riding on a bumpy or winding road
Sitting in a seat facing backward or sideways
Reading while in motion
Being in a stuffy or poorly ventilated vehicle
Being tired or stressed

Who is at Risk of Motion Sickness?

Anyone can experience motion sickness, but some people may be more susceptible than others.

For example, children aged two to 12, pregnant women, and people with inner ear problems or a history of migraines may be more likely to experience motion sickness. Women are also more likely to experience motion sickness than men, possibly due to hormonal differences.

How Can Motion Sickness be Prevented?

There are several strategies you can use to prevent motion sickness or reduce its effects:.

Choose a seat near the front of the vehicle to reduce motion
Keep your eyes focused on the horizon or a fixed point outside the vehicle
Avoid reading or using electronic devices while in motion
Open a window or use a fan to improve air circulation
Avoid strong odors and spicy or fatty foods
Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water

There are also several over-the-counter medications that can help prevent or relieve motion sickness symptoms, such as dimenhydrinate and meclizine. These medications work by blocking signals to the brain that cause nausea and vomiting.

When Should You See a Doctor?

If you experience severe or prolonged symptoms of motion sickness, it’s important to see a doctor. In some cases, motion sickness can lead to dehydration, which can be dangerous if left untreated.

Your doctor may recommend prescription medications or other treatments to help manage your symptoms.

The Bottom Line

Motion sickness is a common condition that can cause discomfort and inconvenience during travel or other motion-related activities. It occurs when there is a mismatch between what your eyes see and what your inner ear senses.

Fortunately, there are several ways to prevent and manage motion sickness, including choosing the right seat, focusing on a fixed point outside the vehicle, and taking over-the-counter medications. If you experience severe or prolonged symptoms, it’s important to see a doctor.